Scientists have identified SLAMF6 as a key suppressor of T cell immunity against cancer and developed monoclonal antibodies that neutralize it in mice, published in Nature. Biotechnology company Replimune Group has reported its 2026 financial position, with a market value of approximately $234.5 million and ongoing clinical trials.
Merck will acquire Terns Pharmaceuticals for $6.7 billion to bolster its cancer pipeline ahead of Keytruda's 2028 patent expiration. The deal gives Merck access to TERN-701, an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor for chronic myeloid leukemia. Merck projects over $70 billion in commercial opportunities from its pipeline by the mid-2030s.
A comprehensive market report reveals over 180 companies are developing more than 200 PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitor drugs, with recent fast-track designations and successful Phase III trial results driving expansion in cancer immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy is increasingly being used before and after surgery across seven cancer types, while the global immunotherapy drugs market experiences significant growth driven by advances in biotechnology and targeted therapies.
