By Fineline Cube 
Everest Medicines Limited (HKG: 1952) announced today that the first patient has been successfully dosed in its global, multi‑center Phase I clinical trial of the universal, off‑the‑shelf therapeutic mRNA cancer vaccine EVM14 Injection. The dose was administered at NEXT Oncology Virginia, a leading clinical research site in the United States.
Key Highlights
- First‑in‑class Platform – EVM14 is built on Everest’s proprietary mRNA technology, targeting five tumor‑associated antigens (TAAs) in a single, off‑the‑shelf formulation.
- Broad Indication Spectrum – Designed for squamous non‑small cell lung cancer (sq‑NSCLC) and head & neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), with potential expansion to other squamous cell carcinomas.
- Mechanism of Action – After intramuscular injection, EVM14 is taken up by antigen‑presenting cells (APCs) and translated into target antigens. These antigens are displayed on MHC molecules, activating antigen‑specific T cells that migrate to tumor sites and kill antigen‑expressing cells.
- Global Trial Milestone – The first patient dose marks a critical step toward demonstrating safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of the vaccine.
Scientific & Commercial Context
- mRNA Vaccine Momentum – Building on the success of mRNA platforms in infectious disease, Everest is pioneering oncology applications, addressing unmet needs in squamous cancers.
- Strategic Partnerships – The trial is conducted in collaboration with NEXT Oncology, leveraging its expertise in squamous tumor trials and access to a diverse patient population.
- Future Outlook – Successful Phase I results will pave the way for Phase II studies and accelerated development timelines, aligning with Everest’s goal to bring next‑generation mRNA therapeutics to patients worldwide.
About Everest Medicines
Everest Medicines Limited is a Hong Kong‑listed biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of next‑generation mRNA therapeutics for oncology and other disease areas. The company’s pipeline includes a range of mRNA vaccines and therapeutics designed to elicit robust, antigen‑specific immune responses.
About EVM14
EVM14 Injection is a universal, off‑the‑shelf therapeutic mRNA cancer vaccine targeting five tumor‑associated antigens. It represents a novel approach to treat multiple squamous cell carcinomas through a single, scalable platform.-Fineline Info & Tech