KEYNOTE-921: Phase III study of pembrolizumab plus docetaxel for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunotherapy
• Prostate Cancer Research

Background:

• Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) presents limited treatment options for patients progressing after next-generation hormonal agents (NHAs).
• An unmet clinical need exists for effective therapies in this patient population.
• Pembrolizumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody, has shown prior activity in mCRPC, both as monotherapy and in combination regimens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of pembrolizumab combined with docetaxel.
• To assess this combination in patients with mCRPC previously treated with an NHA.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, Phase III clinical trial (KEYNOTE-921).
• Participants received either pembrolizumab plus docetaxel or placebo plus docetaxel.
• Patients had mCRPC and prior treatment with an NHA.

Main Results:

• Efficacy and safety data are currently being collected and analyzed.
• The study aims to determine if the combination improves overall survival or progression-free survival compared to docetaxel alone.
• Specific outcome data will be reported upon study completion.

Conclusions:

• The KEYNOTE-921 study will provide crucial data on the role of pembrolizumab plus docetaxel for mCRPC patients post-NHA therapy.
• Results are anticipated to inform future treatment strategies for this challenging cancer.
• This research addresses a significant unmet need in advanced prostate cancer care.