Switzerland-based Novocure (NASDAQ: NVCR) has experienced a setback with its Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) product, as the technology did not meet the overall survival (OS) endpoint in a Phase III trial for ovarian cancer. The ENGOT-ov50 / GOG-3029 / INNOVATE-3 clinical trial was designed to assess the efficacy of TTFields in combination with paclitaxel for the treatment of patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.
Trial Results and Patient Outcomes
At the 18-month follow-up point, there was a slight but statistically insignificant improvement in the 280 patients treated with TTFields, who achieved a median OS of 12.2 months compared to 11.9 months for those treated with paclitaxel alone. This result has led to a reevaluation of the technology’s potential impact on ovarian cancer treatment.
Ongoing Subgroup Analysis and Future Prospects
A full analysis of subgroup data is currently underway, and Novocure remains hopeful that TTFields may be beneficial as a second-line therapy for patients with a limited response to front-line platinum therapy. The data may indicate a survival benefit for this specific patient segment, which could still hold value for the application of TTFields in ovarian cancer treatment. The INNOVATE-3 study enrolled patients with a maximum of five prior lines of systemic therapy.
Market Reaction and Partner Impact
Despite the potential for subgroup benefits, Novocure’s stock experienced a significant drop of 37.5% during trading following the trial results. Zai Lab (HKG: 9688, NASDAQ: ZLAB), Novocure’s partner in developing the technology for the Greater China market, also saw its stock fall by around 5% in the US and during trading in Hong Kong.-Fineline Info & Tech
