China-based Jacobio Pharmaceuticals Group Co., Ltd (HKG: 1167) has announced a clinical study collaboration partnership with German giant Merck KGaA (ETR: MRK). The focus of the study is the combination of Jacobio’s KRAS G12C inhibitor JAB-21822 with Merck’s cetuximab in KRAS G12C mutant colorectal cancer (CRC). This partnership aims to explore the potential synergistic effects of these two therapies in treating advanced colorectal cancer.
JAB-21822: Innovative KRAS G12C Inhibitor
Developed in-house by Jacobio, JAB-21822 is an innovative small-molecule anti-cancer drug and a potential best-in-class KRAS G12C inhibitor. The molecule is currently undergoing Phase I/II clinical studies in advanced solid tumors in China, the US, and Europe. These studies include JAB-21822 as a monotherapy in first-line non-small cell lung cancer or in combination with SHP2 inhibitors or cetuximab.
Cetuximab: EGFR Targeted Monoclonal Antibody
Erbitux (cetuximab), the world’s first epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeted IgG1 monoclonal antibody (mAb), was originally developed by ImClone (now wholly owned by Eli Lilly) and licensed to Merck for markets outside of the US and Canada in 1998. Cetuximab targets EGFR, inhibits receptor activation and subsequent signal transduction, reduces tumor cells’ invasion of normal tissues, and prevents the spread to new sites. It also inhibits tumor cells’ ability to repair damage caused by chemotherapy and radiotherapy and blocks the formation of new blood vessels in tumors. In vitro studies have shown that cetuximab exhibits antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) against EGFR-positive tumor cells. The drug has been approved in over 100 countries/regions worldwide for the treatment of RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer, locally advanced and recurrent, and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCCHN).
Future Outlook
The collaboration between Jacobio and Merck KGaA underscores the potential of combining innovative KRAS G12C inhibitors with established EGFR-targeted therapies. By exploring the combination of JAB-21822 and cetuximab, the partnership aims to enhance treatment options and improve outcomes for patients with KRAS G12C mutant colorectal cancer.-Fineline Info & Tech
