Gilead Sciences (NASDAQ: GILD) and Arcus Biosciences (NYSE: RCUS) have this week released preliminary data from a Phase II study combining Gilead’s anti-TIGIT biologic domvanalimab with Arcus’ anti-PD-1 drug zimberelimab plus chemotherapy for the treatment of locally advanced unresectable or metastatic gastric, gastroesophageal junction, or esophageal adenocarcinoma. The study marks a significant step in the development of new therapies for these hard-to-treat cancers.
Study Results and Safety Profile
After a median follow-up of 8.1 months, the combination therapy displayed a safety profile similar to that of anti-PD-1 drugs plus chemotherapy. The treatment achieved overall response (ORR) and six-month progression-free survival (PFS) rates of 59% and 77%, respectively, in the general population. Notably, in a subgroup of patients with PD-L1-high tumors, these rates were even more impressive at 80% and 93%, respectively.
Support for Ongoing Late-Stage Trials
These interim results provide substantial support for the ongoing late-stage trials for domvanalimab-containing therapies in lung cancer and unresectable or metastatic upper gastrointestinal cancers. The positive outcomes from the Phase II study suggest that the combination therapy may offer a new treatment option for patients with these types of cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.-Fineline Info & Tech
