Onco Preventer

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  • Adaptive Biotechnologies Showcases Leadership in Hematology-Oncology MRD with New clonoSEQ® Data Driving Treatment Interventions at 2025 ASH Annual Meeting

    Fifteen abstracts on Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) will be presented, focusing on the use of minimal residual disease (MRD) to assess depth of response and guide therapy. In diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), results from a phase II Wisconsin Oncology Network study using clonoSEQ to de-escalate therapy in frail older adults will be featured (poster presentation, abstract 1964). Additional data supporting the integration of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) into post–CAR T surveillance will also be presented (oral presentation, abstract 941).

    In mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), results from a phase II MRD-guided study in older patients demonstrate the use of clonoSEQ to guide the duration of frontline BOVen therapy (zanubrutinib, obinutuzumab, venetoclax) (oral presentation, abstract 888).

    Seven abstracts on chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) utilizing clonoSEQ MRD will be presented, mainly focusing on assessing treatment response and guiding treatment discontinuation. A Phase II study involving 80 previously untreated CLL patients showed that a time-limited combination of pirtobrutinib, venetoclax, and obinutuzumab (PVO) achieved deep and durable remissions based on MRD assessment at a 10-6 threshold. MRD positive status determined by clonoSEQ was used to identify patients who might benefit from continued therapy, highlighting clonoSEQ as a potential tool for guiding treatment duration in this regimen (oral presentation, abstract 680).

    In acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), 30 abstracts will describe the use of clonoSEQ to assess treatment response in both investigator studies and real-world data, along with analyses comparing bone marrow and peripheral blood MRD measurements.

    Susan Bobulsky, chief commercial officer for MRD at Adaptive Biotechnologies, emphasized that the extensive data presented at ASH further solidifies clonoSEQ’s leadership in blood cancer MRD monitoring. She noted the clinical evidence and real-world experience reflect clear recognition of the test’s value in advancing therapeutic progress and enhancing MRD-informed patient management.

    clonoSEQ® is the first and only FDA-cleared in vitro diagnostic test for detecting and tracking MRD in multiple myeloma (MM) and B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) using bone marrow, and in CLL using blood or bone marrow. The test is also available as a CLIA-validated laboratory developed test for DLBCL, MCL, and other lymphoid cancers. clonoSEQ is covered by Medicare for MM, CLL, ALL, DLBCL, and MCL.

    The test identifies and quantifies malignant DNA sequences, detecting one cancer cell among one million healthy cells to help clinicians monitor MRD accurately over time. clonoSEQ provides standardized, sensitive results that inform treatment decisions, predict outcomes, and enable early relapse detection.

    clonoSEQ is CE-marked under the EU In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR). Details on intended use in the EU are available upon request. Information on FDA-cleared uses of clonoSEQ can be found at clonoSEQ.com/technical-summary.

    Adaptive Biotechnologies is a commercial-stage biotechnology company focused on leveraging the adaptive immune system to transform disease diagnosis and treatment. Their proprietary immune medicine platform decodes the genetics of the adaptive immune system to advance drug development, diagnostics, and patient care in areas including MRD and immune medicine. The company’s products and clinical pipeline target diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders, aiming to enable personalized immune-driven clinical solutions.

    This release contains forward-looking statements based on management’s current beliefs and available information. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. Factors affecting performance are detailed in Adaptive Biotechnologies’ filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law.

    For investor inquiries, contact Karina Calzadilla, Vice President of Investor Relations, at 201-396-1687 or [email protected].

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  • Renuka Iyer, MD, Named New Chief Medical Officer for National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) | Newswise

    The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), an alliance of leading cancer centers known for publishing free, evidence-based, expert consensus guidelines for cancer prevention and care, has appointed Renuka Iyer, MD, as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO).

    Dr. Iyer brings extensive experience in oncology leadership and innovation. She currently serves as Professor of Oncology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, an NCCN member institution. She is also Section Chief of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Vice Chair of Faculty Affairs in the Department of Medicine at Roswell Park, and Medical Director for Medical Oncology across the Roswell Park Care Network. Additionally, she holds a professorship in Medicine at the Jacobs School of Medicine at the University of Buffalo.

    After completing her medical oncology fellowship at Roswell Park, Dr. Iyer earned her medical degree from Grant Medical College, University of Mumbai, followed by residency at Cornell University School of Medicine. She is board certified in internal medicine and oncology and a member of several professional societies. Dr. Iyer has received multiple awards from organizations including the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society, The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, and the American Cancer Society. Her research focuses on novel therapies for rare cancers, immunotherapy, biomarkers, and quality of life improvements.

    Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, NCCN Chief Executive Officer, stated that Dr. Iyer is well suited to lead the organization’s efforts to improve cancer treatment and outcomes worldwide. She highlighted Dr. Iyer’s commitment to advancing research and translating innovations into practice to enhance patient care.

    Since 2023, Dr. Iyer has served on the NCCN Guidelines Steering Committee, providing strategic oversight of the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®) program. She has also contributed as a panelist for the NCCN Guidelines Panels on Occult Primary Cancer and Hepatobiliary Cancer and participated in other professional guidelines panels.

    As NCCN’s CMO, Dr. Iyer will expand her leadership role in the NCCN Guidelines program, which includes 90 guidelines covering nearly every type of cancer, along with prevention, screening, and supportive care. These guidelines are updated regularly and are accessible through multiple platforms, including the interactive NCCN Guidelines Navigator™.

    Her responsibilities will also include overseeing additional point-of-care resources based on NCCN Guidelines, managing the Continuing Education department, and supervising the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (JNCCN). She will engage in global initiatives and policy efforts to further the organization’s mission.

    Dr. Iyer expressed her enthusiasm about joining NCCN during a pivotal time of innovation and updates in cancer care information delivery. She looks forward to advancing high-quality cancer care and strengthening NCCN’s impact.

    Dr. Renuka Iyer will assume her role as Chief Medical Officer on February 26, 2026.

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  • Kimryn Rathmell: World-Class Hematology Oncology Science from The James Team at ASH25

    Kimryn Rathmell, CEO of Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, highlighted the team’s presence at the 25th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting. The James is showcasing over 100 presentations that demonstrate advances in hematology oncology and innovations in blood cancer treatment.

    Attendees are encouraged to visit booth 181 to engage with experts and explore the full presentation schedule. Key research areas include developing next-generation CAR T-cell therapies and applying artificial intelligence to improve understanding and treatment of blood cancers.

    The team is also leading clinical trials on novel inhibitors, such as next-generation BTK inhibitors, to address treatment resistance in challenging cases. Additionally, they are advancing precision medicine approaches to better assess cancer risk and optimize therapies for aggressive leukemias in vulnerable adult populations.

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  • PLISSIT in Practice: How Oncology Nurses Can Address Sexual Health in Patients With GVHD

    Sexual health is a significant concern for many patients with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) following allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT), yet it is often overlooked in clinical discussions. A common barrier is the assumption that other healthcare team members will address the topic. Oncology nurses are uniquely positioned to bridge this gap by assessing patient needs, addressing sexual concerns, and connecting patients with appropriate resources. They play a vital role in normalizing sexual health as part of alloSCT care, especially regarding the impact of GVHD. The PLISSIT communication model can help oncology nurses confidently initiate these important conversations.

    Sexual dysfunction affects roughly 50% of men and up to 80% of women after stem cell transplantation. GVHD complicates sexual health further, particularly when genital involvement occurs. Physical changes such as vaginal dryness, erectile dysfunction, altered body image, and fatigue can impair libido, arousal, and orgasm. Additionally, GVHD symptoms, immunosuppressive treatments, and medications like narcotics or antimicrobials can negatively affect sexual function. Psychosocial and intimacy challenges may also increase distress and reduce quality of life.

    A cross-sectional secondary analysis of two randomized clinical trials involving 185 adults more than three months post-transplant found that greater sexual satisfaction correlated with higher quality of life and fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety. Most participants (79%) had undergone alloSCT. The study emphasized the biopsychosocial nature of sexual health, which encompasses physical, practical, emotional, social, and spiritual factors rather than solely physiological changes.

    The PLISSIT model offers a four-step framework—permission, limited information, specific suggestions, and intensive therapy—that oncology nurses can use to address sexual health concerns in patients with GVHD.

    The first step, Permission, involves inviting patients or their partners to discuss sexual concerns. For example, nurses might say, “Many patients with GVHD experience intimacy or sexual challenges. I’m here to discuss any questions or concerns you have.” This approach normalizes the topic and validates the patient’s experience while reducing embarrassment.

    The second step, Limited Information, entails providing brief, tailored information. An example would be, “Some women with GVHD experience vaginal dryness; using vaginal moisturizers or lubricants can provide relief.” The goal is to avoid overwhelming patients with excessive details.

    The third step, Specific Suggestions, includes offering practical advice or coordinating additional support. For instance, a nurse might say, “Let’s connect you with our transplant social worker to explore ways to discuss body image concerns with your partner.” Oncology nurses’ comfort with this step may vary depending on their knowledge and experience.

    The final step, Intensive Therapy, involves referring patients to specialists such as mental health professionals, sexual health therapists, or gynecologists/urologists. A typical referral statement could be, “I’d like to refer you to our gynecologist, who helps patients manage GVHD-related pain or scarring.” While not every patient requires specialist intervention, oncology nurses should be familiar with local resources to support patients effectively.

    Discussing sexuality can be uncomfortable for both oncology nurses and alloSCT survivors, particularly when GVHD causes genital changes, painful intercourse, or intimacy difficulties. However, normalizing these conversations—similar to routine education on other GVHD side effects like skin, liver, or gastrointestinal issues—can help reduce anxiety for patients and caregivers alike. The PLISSIT model provides a clear structure for oncology nurses to facilitate these discussions, emphasizing the importance of taking initiative in addressing sexual health concerns.

    For further information on sexual health after stem cell transplantation and communication strategies, consult additional resources dedicated to this topic.

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  • Is AbbVie’s Expanding Migraine And Oncology Pipeline Reshaping The Investment Case For AbbVie (ABBV)?

    AbbVie has recently reported positive late-stage trial results for its migraine drug atogepant, made advancements in oncology with assets such as PVEK for rare blood cancers, and secured Canadian reimbursement progress for its ulcerative colitis therapy SKYRIZI. These developments, along with new EPKINLY approvals and upcoming presentations at the ASH hematology conference, highlight AbbVie’s efforts to diversify its portfolio beyond its traditional immunology products.

    The Phase 3 ECLIPSE trial results for atogepant are particularly noteworthy as they bolster AbbVie’s existing migraine franchise and could reduce its reliance on a concentrated immunology portfolio. If regulatory approval is granted for atogepant’s use in acute treatment, it would provide additional support for the company’s earnings stability. However, the company continues to face ongoing challenges related to biosimilar competition, healthcare cost pressures, and looming patent expirations.

    AbbVie’s growth strategy depends on whether its newer immunology, neuroscience, and oncology drugs can offset revenue losses from Humira and sustain dividend payouts amid high debt levels and narrowing margins. While recent data supports this diversification, the near-term focus remains on accelerating growth for Skyrizi and Rinvoq amid persistent risks from pricing pressures and patent cliffs.

    The company projects revenue of $73 billion and earnings of $20.8 billion by 2028, implying an annual revenue growth rate of 7.7% and an earnings increase of roughly $17.1 billion from current levels. Analysts’ fair value estimates for AbbVie shares vary widely, ranging from approximately $227.78 to $431.46, reflecting divergent views on the company’s pipeline potential and exposure to concentrated drug platforms.

    Investors should consider the risks associated with heavy reliance on a few key drugs, particularly in light of potential safety issues or pricing challenges that could impact future performance.

    For those seeking alternative perspectives, resources like detailed fundamental analyses and visual tools can provide insights into AbbVie’s financial health and help shape individual investment narratives.

    This analysis is based on historical data and analyst forecasts using an unbiased methodology. It is not financial advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Readers should conduct their own research and consider all relevant factors before making investment decisions.

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  • Is AbbVie’s Expanding Migraine And Oncology Pipeline Reshaping The Investment Case For AbbVie (ABBV)?

    AbbVie has recently announced positive late-stage trial results for its migraine drug atogepant and made progress with oncology assets, including PVEK for rare blood cancers. The company has also secured Canadian reimbursement for its ulcerative colitis therapy SKYRIZI. Alongside new EPKINLY approvals and upcoming presentations at the ASH hematology conference, these developments demonstrate AbbVie’s efforts to expand its portfolio beyond traditional immunology products.

    The atogepant Phase 3 migraine data and broader pipeline advances reinforce AbbVie’s strategy to diversify its revenue streams. However, the company’s near-term focus remains on growing Skyrizi and Rinvoq while managing risks related to pricing pressures and upcoming patent expirations.

    The Phase 3 ECLIPSE trial results for atogepant are particularly notable as they complement AbbVie’s existing migraine treatments and reduce dependence on its concentrated immunology portfolio. If regulatory approval for atogepant’s acute treatment indication is obtained, the drug could provide additional earnings stability. Nevertheless, challenges such as biosimilar competition and healthcare cost controls continue to pose significant risks.

    AbbVie projects revenues of $73.0 billion and earnings of $20.8 billion by 2028, implying a compound annual growth rate of 7.7% and an earnings increase of approximately $17.1 billion from current levels. This outlook represents an estimated 8% upside potential from the stock’s current price.

    Valuation perspectives for AbbVie vary widely, with community fair value estimates ranging from approximately $228 to $431 per share. This divergence highlights the importance of considering concentration risks within AbbVie’s immunology and neuroscience portfolios when assessing future pipeline outcomes and their impact on the company’s performance.

    Investors are encouraged to develop their own view of AbbVie’s investment case and consider fundamental analysis tools, such as comprehensive financial health assessments, to make informed decisions.

    AbbVie’s recent pipeline progress and strategic initiatives position it to address challenges from legacy product declines and market pressures, though ongoing vigilance is necessary given sector dynamics and regulatory uncertainties.

    This article is based on historical data and analyst forecasts and does not constitute financial advice. It does not consider individual investment objectives or financial situations.

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  • MVR-T3011 Yields Efficacy and Safety in BCG-Unresponsive NMIBC

    Interim clinical data for the oncolytic virus product MVR-T3011 has shown significant efficacy, particularly at a higher dose level, in patients with high-risk, Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG)-unresponsive non–muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). The results were presented at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Society of Urologic Oncology.

    Patients in both papillary and carcinoma in situ (CIS) cohorts demonstrated positive responses at 3 and 6 months. The treatment also exhibited a favorable safety and tolerability profile. The data, current as of September 19, 2025, are from a phase 2 interventional study (NCT06971614).

    The trial revealed a promising efficacy profile, with notably high response rates observed at the 1×10¹⁰ PFU dose level across both patient groups.

    In the papillary NMIBC cohort, 26 patients were enrolled, with 16 receiving the lower dose and 10 the higher dose. Three-month recurrence-free survival (RFS) was 87.1% at the 2×10⁹ PFU dose and 100% at 1×10¹⁰ PFU. Six-month RFS was 80.4% and 100%, respectively. At nine months, RFS was 80.4% for the lower dose and was not reached for the higher dose. Twelve-month RFS was 71.4% at the lower dose and also not reached at the higher dose.

    Among 12 patients with CIS NMIBC (with or without Ta/T1), 7 received the lower dose and 5 the higher dose. The 3- and 6-month complete response rates (CRR) were 71.4% at 2×10⁹ PFU and 100% at 1×10¹⁰ PFU across both dose levels.

    The safety profile of MVR-T3011 remained consistent with previous findings. Most treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were grade 1 or 2. Five grade 3 TEAEs were reported, two of which were treatment-related and consistent with catheterization procedures. No dose-limiting toxicities or grade 4 or higher TEAEs occurred.

    MVR-T3011 is a replication-competent, tumor-lytic Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) based oncolytic immunotherapy featuring a proprietary 3-in-1 design. It integrates an anti-PD-(L)1 antibody and interleukin-12 (IL-12) within the HSV-1 backbone, allowing simultaneous tumor cell lysis and stimulation of both innate and adaptive immune responses. The product is adaptable to multiple administration routes, including intratumoral, intracavitary, and intravenous.

    Notably, MVR-T3011 is the first HSV-1-based oncolytic immunotherapy to complete a phase 1 trial via systemic intravenous dosing under the FDA regulatory framework.

    The development of MVR-T3011 targets the urgent unmet need in high-risk NMIBC treatment, where BCG remains the standard of care. However, a global shortage of BCG exists, with the US supply meeting less than 30% of demand, underscoring the need for novel therapies.

    ImmVira, the trial sponsor, launched the phase 2 trial for BCG-unresponsive high-risk NMIBC in the US in June 2025 and is advancing a global multi-regional trial including China.

    Grace Zhou, MD, chairwoman and CEO of ImmVira, stated, “We are highly encouraged by the interim efficacy data, especially the high complete response and recurrence-free survival rates for both BCG-unresponsive CIS and papillary patients at 1×10¹⁰ PFU. We believe MVR-T3011 could emerge as the next generation of therapy for patients with high-risk, BCG-unresponsive NMIBC.”

    Reference: ImmVira news release, December 4, 2025.

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  • From robotic surgery to radiation beams: understanding precision healing in oncology

    Cancer treatment is primarily based on surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. For advanced or aggressive tumors, a multimodal approach targeting cancer at various levels yields the best outcomes. Surgery removes the solid tumor and nearby lymph nodes, adjuvant radiation eliminates microscopic cancer cells in the tumor bed after surgery, and chemotherapy targets cancer cells circulating in the body.

    Advancements in robotics and radiation therapy have enhanced precision care and improved survival rates, making it essential for patients and caregivers to understand these innovations.

    Robotic surgery is a cutting-edge form of minimally invasive surgery that is rapidly transforming cancer care globally. Unlike traditional open or laparoscopic procedures, robotic platforms offer surgeons enhanced precision and flexibility, allowing operations in difficult-to-reach areas. The most widely used system is a master-slave telemanipulator, where the surgeon controls robotic arms equipped with wristed instruments from an ergonomic console, viewing a magnified 3D high-definition image. Features like tremor filtration and motion scaling enable delicate surgical tasks that were previously challenging.

    For cancer patients, robotic surgery offers considerable benefits including reduced pain, minimal blood loss, fewer infections, smaller scars, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. Multiple studies demonstrate that cancer cure rates and long-term outcomes with robotic surgery are equivalent to those of open or laparoscopic surgery. This approach is particularly effective in treating pelvic cancers such as prostate, cervix, endometrium, and rectum, as well as cancers of the kidney, bladder, esophagus, lung, and throat.

    Although robotic procedures currently incur higher costs due to equipment and maintenance, prices are expected to decline as new domestic and international providers enter the Indian market. Most health insurance plans in India now cover robotic surgery, often with certain sub-limits, following guidelines set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India in 2019.

    The growth of robotic surgery in India is remarkable, with a 53% increase in procedures recorded in 2024, making it the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region. The sector’s value is projected to rise from $78 million in 2022 to $390 million by 2030. Emerging technologies integrate artificial intelligence, improved ergonomics, and multi-quadrant access to further reduce surgeon fatigue and complications. For eligible patients, robotic surgery is increasingly becoming the standard of care for minimally invasive oncology procedures.

    Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to damage cancer cell DNA. Earlier radiation machines, though effective, lacked precision, often exposing normal tissues to unnecessary radiation and causing side effects. Modern radiation therapy has evolved into highly personalized and precise treatment through advanced imaging, computing, engineering, and physics.

    India’s Cancer Institute (WIA) has played a pioneering role in this evolution, installing one of Asia’s first Cobalt-60 units in 1956 and later the country’s first RapidArc system. A key advancement is Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT), which captures images before each session to ensure accurate tumor targeting, compensating for internal movements due to breathing, organ shifts, or tumor changes. Techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) shape radiation beams precisely to tumors, significantly reducing side effects in head and neck, breast, brain, and prostate cancers.

    Stereotactic radiation, including Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) for brain tumors and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for lung, liver, and spine cancers, delivers highly precise treatments in one to five sessions instead of the traditional 25 to 40. These “surgery without a knife” methods spare healthy tissues while delivering effective doses.

    Adaptive Radiation Therapy allows treatment plans to be adjusted during sessions as tumors shrink or patient anatomy changes. The MR-Linac combines magnetic resonance imaging with radiation delivery, enabling real-time visualization and instant adjustment for tumors that move with breathing.

    Beyond X-rays, proton and carbon-ion therapies provide more selective radiation with fewer long-term side effects, particularly beneficial for children. Innovations such as FLASH therapy, robotics, tumor-tracking systems, and digital virtual patient models are shaping the future of radiation oncology. Artificial intelligence reduces planning time by automatically outlining tumors and critical organs, improving efficiency and accuracy.

    Advances in cancer-fighting technologies have made treatments more precise, safer, and less burdensome for patients. Robotics and modern radiation therapy have enhanced clinical outcomes, shortened hospital stays, and minimized side effects, contributing to higher satisfaction for clinicians and caregivers, and, most importantly, leading to more lives healed and saved.

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  • Lurbinectedin Contributes to Maintenance of Response in ES-SCLC

    The addition of immunotherapy to frontline platinum-based chemotherapy marked a significant advancement in the treatment of extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). Maintaining longer responses in patients receiving chemoimmunotherapy while preserving quality of life represents another important development in this field. At a recent live Community Case Forum in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, Joshua K. Sabari, MD, assistant professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, discussed the phase 3 IMforte trial (NCT05091567) evaluating maintenance therapy with lurbinectedin (Zepzelca) and atezolizumab (Tecentriq).

    The IMforte trial enrolled 660 patients with ES-SCLC who had not received prior systemic therapy, had no CNS metastases, and maintained good performance status. All patients underwent an induction phase consisting of four cycles of atezolizumab combined with carboplatin and etoposide. Following induction, 483 patients who achieved complete response, partial response, or stable disease were eligible for randomization to the maintenance phase. Patients with disease progression or deterioration in performance status were excluded from randomization.

    During maintenance, patients were assigned to receive either lurbinectedin at 3.2 mg/m2 plus atezolizumab or atezolizumab alone until disease progression, with no crossover permitted. The trial’s primary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

    Baseline characteristics after randomization showed balanced demographics and disease features. About 50% of patients in the combination arm were under 65 years of age compared to 37% in the atezolizumab-alone arm. Both groups had similar sex distribution. Notably, liver metastases were present in 42% of patients receiving lurbinectedin/atezolizumab and 39% receiving atezolizumab alone. ECOG performance status and lactate dehydrogenase levels, markers of disease burden, were well balanced between arms. Median time from cycle 1 to induction completion was 3.2 months in both groups. Pre-maintenance response rates were comparable, with 87% in the combination arm and 88% in the atezolizumab-alone arm achieving complete or partial responses.

    Following randomization, median PFS was 5.4 months for patients receiving maintenance lurbinectedin and atezolizumab compared with 2.1 months for those receiving atezolizumab alone, representing a 46% reduction in risk of progression or death (hazard ratio [HR] 0.54; 95% CI, 0.43-0.67; P < .0001). When including the induction period, median PFS extended to 8.4 months. The PFS curves showed early and sustained separation, with 20.5% of the combination arm progression-free at 12 months versus 12% in the atezolizumab-alone group. At six months, progression-free rates were 40% versus 18%, respectively.

    Median overall survival was 13.2 months for the combination maintenance group versus 10.6 months for the atezolizumab-alone group, reflecting a 27% reduction in mortality risk (HR 0.73; 95% CI, 0.57-0.95; P = .0174). Including the induction period, median OS reached approximately 16.4 months. Survival curves demonstrated a separation at the 12-month landmark, with 56% of patients alive in the combination arm compared to 44% in the atezolizumab-alone arm. These results suggest that combining lurbinectedin with immunotherapy deepens and prolongs response duration in ES-SCLC, offering a durable clinical benefit.

    The IMforte trial findings underscore the value of maintenance therapy with lurbinectedin plus atezolizumab following frontline chemoimmunotherapy in ES-SCLC, supporting its role in extending progression-free and overall survival.

    Disclosure: Dr. Sabari has received consulting or advisory fees from AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Regeneron, Medscape, Takeda, Janssen, Genentech/Roche, Mirati Therapeutics, AbbVie, Loxo/Lilly, and Sanofi, and institutional support from Janssen, Loxo/Lilly, Mirati Therapeutics, and Regeneron.

    Reference: Paz-Ares L, Borghaei H, Liu SV, et al. Efficacy and safety of first-line maintenance therapy with lurbinectedin plus atezolizumab in extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer (IMforte): a randomised, multicentre, open-label, phase 3 trial. Lancet. 2025;405(10495):2129-2143. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(25)01011-6

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