China-based biotech firm BioCity Biopharma has entered into a clinical study partnership with UK pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca (AZ, NASDAQ: AZN). The collaboration aims to conduct a Phase Ib/II study assessing the safety and efficacy of BioCity’s BC3402 in combination with AstraZeneca’s Imfinzi (durvalumab) for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular cell cancer (HCC). BioCity will take the lead on the study in China, where tacit IND approval has already been granted.
Study Focus and Drug Profiles
Durvalumab, a programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor, has received global market approval for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), small-cell lung cancer (SCLC), HCC, urothelial carcinoma, and biliary carcinoma. In China, it is approved for the treatment of NSCLC and SCLC. BC3402, on the other hand, is a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that targets TIM-3, a protein highly expressed in tumors resistant to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Pre-clinical efficacy studies have demonstrated that BC3402 can achieve synergistic effects when used in conjunction with PD-1 and CTLA-4-targeted products.
Potential Impact of the Study
The combination of BC3402 and Imfinzi represents a potential new approach to treating HCC, a disease with limited treatment options. The study’s results could provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of this combination therapy, potentially expanding treatment options for patients with HCC and contributing to the global effort to improve outcomes for those affected by this aggressive cancer.
Conclusion
The partnership between BioCity Biopharma and AstraZeneca highlights the ongoing commitment to innovation in oncology and the pursuit of novel therapies for challenging diseases like HCC. With BioCity leading the study in China, the collaboration has the potential to accelerate the development of new treatment strategies and improve patient care.-Fineline Info & Tech
