MCLA-128 Fights NRG1 Fusion-Positive Cancers

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Immunotherapy

Background:

• Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) gene fusions are rare but actionable drivers in various cancers.
• Targeting NRG1 fusions presents a therapeutic opportunity in cancers with limited treatment options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the bispecific antibody MCLA-128 in patients with NRG1 fusion-positive solid tumors.
• To assess tumor response and clinical benefit in a proof-of-concept study.

Main Methods:

• Administration of MCLA-128 to patients with KRAS-wild-type pancreatic ductal carcinoma and non-small cell lung cancer harboring NRG1 fusions.
• Tumor response assessment using standard clinical evaluation criteria.

Main Results:

• Two patients with pancreatic ductal carcinoma achieved tumor shrinkage, including one partial response and one stable disease.
• A third patient with non-small cell lung cancer and an NRG1 fusion demonstrated a partial response.

Conclusions:

• MCLA-128 demonstrates preliminary clinical activity against NRG1 fusion-driven cancers.
• Bispecific antibody therapy targeting NRG1 fusions warrants further investigation in clinical trials.