Eucure Biopharma, a subsidiary of Sino-US contract research organization Biocytogen, announced that the first patient has been dosed in a Phase II clinical study in China for a combination regimen of its CD40 monoclonal antibody (mAb) YH003 with Merck’s PD-1 inhibitor Keytruda (pembrolizumab) and albumin paclitaxel. The trial targets first-line unresectable/metastatic mucosal melanoma, a highly aggressive cancer with limited treatment options.
Study Background
Mucosal melanoma, known for its poor prognosis, has historically been excluded from melanoma trials in Europe and the US, leaving a gap in evidence-based therapies. Eucure’s study aims to fill this void by evaluating the efficacy of YH003, a humanized IgG2 agonistic CD40 antibody, in combination with Keytruda and chemotherapy.
Drug Profile
YH003 activates antigen-presenting cells and enhances anti-tumor T cell activity. In a prior Phase I trial, the drug demonstrated strong anti-tumor effects in melanoma and pancreatic cancer, with good safety. Beyond Keytruda, YH003 is also being tested with Eucure’s CTLA-4 mAb YH001 and Junshi Bio’s PD-1 inhibitor toripalimab.-Fineline Info & Tech
