By Fineline Cube 
HanX Biopharmaceuticals (Wuhan) Co., Ltd., a fast‑growing Chinese biotech, announced that the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for a clinical trial of HX044 in combination with the PD‑1 antibody HX008 (pucotenlimab). The approval paves the way for testing the combo in patients with advanced solid tumors across China.
Product Highlights
- HX044 – a first‑in‑class bispecific antibody that simultaneously targets CTLA‑4 and a tumor‑associated antigen, designed to overcome PD‑1 resistance in cancers such as non‑small‑cell lung cancer, melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, and gastrointestinal malignancies.
- HX008 (pucotenlimab) – a humanized monoclonal antibody with high FcRn affinity, conferring an extended half‑life and improved patient compliance. Developed jointly with Lepu Medical, it remains a leading PD‑1 therapeutic in the Chinese market.
Clinical & Strategic Implications
- Expanded Therapeutic Window – HX044’s dual‑target design enhances anti‑tumor immune responses while mitigating the safety concerns that have limited earlier CTLA‑4 agents.
- Patient‑Centric Design – HX008’s long half‑life reduces dosing frequency, potentially improving adherence and quality of life for oncology patients.
- Regulatory Milestone – NMPA clearance is a critical step for HanX to launch a global clinical program, positioning the company as a key player in next‑generation checkpoint inhibitors.
Market Outlook
- Competitive Advantage – The HX044‑HX008 combination targets the growing segment of PD‑1‑resistant tumors, offering a differentiated therapeutic option against established PD‑1/PD‑L1 agents.
- Revenue Potential – Successful clinical outcomes could unlock multi‑billion‑dollar opportunities in China and beyond, aligning with HanX’s aggressive pipeline strategy.-Fineline Info & Tech