The investigational bispecific antibody ubamatamab (REGN4018) has shown potential in the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer, according to a phase I study presented at the International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) annual meeting. Dr. Roisin O’Cearbhaill from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medical College shared updated results of the study, highlighting the safety and activity of ubamatamab both as a monotherapy and in combination with the PD-1 inhibitor cemiplimab (Libtayo). In this article, we delve into the expert analysis provided by Dr. Richard Penson of the Mass General Cancer Center, further exploring the implications of this groundbreaking research.
Dr. Penson provides key insights into the mechanism of action of bispecific antibodies, specifically focusing on ubamatamab. He explains that bispecific antibodies like ubamatamab are designed to engage both T-cells and tumor cells, enabling a closer interaction and facilitating a targeted immune response. Ubamatamab consists of a CD3 a T-cell receptor and MUC16/CA-125, which serves as the target for the bispecific antibody. Additionally, Dr. Penson highlights the significance of having a second signal to amplify the immune response, which is achieved through the addition of cemiplimab, a PD-1 antibody.
While the results of the study are promising, there is still room for improvement. Dr. Penson acknowledges that the objective response rates achieved with ubamatamab alone (14%) and in combination with cemiplimab (18%) fall short of expectations. Furthermore, the duration of response, which was excellent for the monotherapy but reduced with the combination, indicates the need for further exploration and refinement of the treatment. The phase I data presented signifies that this is still early-stage research, and dose optimization and ongoing trials are essential to uncover the full potential of ubamatamab.
Dr. Penson emphasizes the importance of addressing the toxicities associated with the treatment, such as cytokine release syndrome, pain, anemia, and neutropenia. However, he maintains that the targeting of CA-125, a well-known biomarker in ovarian cancer, presents an exciting avenue for therapeutic advancements. As researchers continue to refine the use of bispecific antibodies and explore additional combinations, the potential for improving response rates and extending the duration of response becomes increasingly feasible. Dr. Penson concludes by expressing his enthusiasm for this innovative treatment platform and the potential it holds for improving outcomes in patients with recurrent ovarian cancer.
The phase I study presented at the IGCS annual meeting demonstrates the promise of ubamatamab in the treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer. Dr. Penson’s expert analysis highlights the mechanism of action, the need for further optimization, and the potential for improvements in response rates and duration. As researchers continue to delve into the intricacies of bispecific antibodies and explore additional combinations, the future looks promising for patients battling this challenging disease. It is through ongoing research and innovation that the medical community can inch closer to finding effective therapeutics against recurrent ovarian cancer, bringing hope to patients and their loved ones.
Leave a Reply