Immuneering Stock Soars on Promising Pancreatic Cancer Trial Results
Immuneering Corporation (NASDAQ:IMRX) shares surged 55% following the announcement of encouraging data from the ongoing Phase 2a trial of IMM-1-104, a treatment for pancreatic cancer. The Cambridge-based clinical-stage oncology company reported positive response rates and disease control in the trial and also revealed plans to expand the study to include additional combination arms.
As of December 5, 2024, the combination of IMM-1-104 with modified gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel demonstrated a 43% overall response rate (ORR) and an 86% disease control rate (DCR) in first-line pancreatic cancer patients. These figures represent a significant improvement compared to the 23% ORR and 48% DCR from the Phase 3 MPACT study of gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel alone. Immuneering's CEO, Ben Zeskind, Ph.D., expressed optimism about the potential for significant clinical trial outcomes based on these results.
The company also reported initial data from the combination of IMM-1-104 with modified FOLFIRINOX (mFFX) in first-line pancreatic cancer patients, where all evaluable patients exhibited target lesion reduction, and one patient experienced a 100% complete reduction. Additionally, in a monotherapy arm for second-line pancreatic cancer, IMM-1-104 demonstrated a 67% reduction in target lesions, supporting its development in first-line combinations.
Immuneering's announcement was bolstered by the recognition of IMM-1-104's differentiated tolerability profile, which is expected to be better tolerated compared to currently approved MEK inhibitors. The company plans to launch three new Phase 2a combination arms in 2025 and has received Fast Track designation from the FDA for the treatment of first and second-line pancreatic cancer, as well as for unresectable or metastatic NRAS-mutant melanoma.
Dr. Tanios Bekaii-Saab from Mayo Clinic Cancer Center commented on the Phase 2a data, highlighting the potential of IMM-1-104 to provide enhanced efficacy and tolerability in the first-line pancreatic cancer setting and its promise for other cancer types due to its well-tolerated nature.
Investors are also awaiting additional IMM-1-104 Phase 2a data in the second quarter of 2025, with further trials planned for melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Positive trial updates and the company's strategic plans to expand the study contributed to a significant rise in Immuneering's stock price.