Onco Preventer

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  • Novel Prediction Model for Hearing Loss From Chemotherapy in Pediatric Patients With Cancer

    In a study reported in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, Millstein et al attempted to develop a predictive model—Pediatric Holistic Evaluation of Auditory Risk (PedsHEAR)—for hearing loss associated with cisplatin chemotherapy in children and adolescents with cancer.

    Study Details

    PedsHEAR was developed from a multicenter training data set of cisplatin-exposed patients up to age 21 (1984–2017) and externally validated using data from the Children’s Oncology Group ACCL05C1 study (2007–2012) and two combined institutional cohorts (1988–2022). The model predicts the probability of hearing loss after treatment in each patient, with patients being classified as at low (< 0.33), intermediate (0.33–0.60), or high risk (> 0.60) for hearing loss. The primary outcome measure was post-treatment communication–affecting hearing loss—ie, International Society of Pediatric Oncology Ototoxicity Scale (SIOP) grade ≥ 2.

    Key Findings

    In the training data set (n = 1,115, median age = 6.3 years), SIOP grade ≥ 2 hearing loss was present in 44%. The PedsHEAR model showed high discrimination (AUC = 0.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.92–0.95). Discrimination was validated in an internal validation testing cohort (AUC = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.74–0.85) and two external validation cohorts (AUCs = 0.74 and 0.67). In an aggregate validation cohort (n = 631), the model predicted the probability of hearing loss (AUC = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.72–0.79) and classified 22% (n = 141), 71% (n = 447), and 7% (n = 43) of patients as at low, intermediate, and high risk for post-treatment hearing loss.

    The investigators concluded: “PedsHEAR predicted SIOP grade ≥ 2 [hearing loss] in pediatric cisplatin-treated patients. This is the first validated model to successfully predict cisplatin-induced [hearing loss] in a broadly representative population treated with diverse regimens across a range of treatment settings.”

    Etan Orgel, MD, MS, of Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, is the corresponding author of the Journal of Clinical Oncology article.

  • Novel Prediction Model for Hearing Loss From Chemotherapy in Pediatric Patients With Cancer

    In a study reported in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, Millstein et al attempted to develop a predictive model—Pediatric Holistic Evaluation of Auditory Risk (PedsHEAR)—for hearing loss associated with cisplatin chemotherapy in children and adolescents with cancer.

    Study Details

    PedsHEAR was developed from a multicenter training data set of cisplatin-exposed patients up to age 21 (1984–2017) and externally validated using data from the Children’s Oncology Group ACCL05C1 study (2007–2012) and two combined institutional cohorts (1988–2022). The model predicts the probability of hearing loss after treatment in each patient, with patients being classified as at low (< 0.33), intermediate (0.33–0.60), or high risk (> 0.60) for hearing loss. The primary outcome measure was post-treatment communication–affecting hearing loss—ie, International Society of Pediatric Oncology Ototoxicity Scale (SIOP) grade ≥ 2.

    Key Findings

    In the training data set (n = 1,115, median age = 6.3 years), SIOP grade ≥ 2 hearing loss was present in 44%. The PedsHEAR model showed high discrimination (AUC = 0.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.92–0.95). Discrimination was validated in an internal validation testing cohort (AUC = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.74–0.85) and two external validation cohorts (AUCs = 0.74 and 0.67). In an aggregate validation cohort (n = 631), the model predicted the probability of hearing loss (AUC = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.72–0.79) and classified 22% (n = 141), 71% (n = 447), and 7% (n = 43) of patients as at low, intermediate, and high risk for post-treatment hearing loss.

    The investigators concluded: “PedsHEAR predicted SIOP grade ≥ 2 [hearing loss] in pediatric cisplatin-treated patients. This is the first validated model to successfully predict cisplatin-induced [hearing loss] in a broadly representative population treated with diverse regimens across a range of treatment settings.”

    Etan Orgel, MD, MS, of Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, is the corresponding author of the Journal of Clinical Oncology article.

  • IQVIA and SCRI Collaborate to Accelerate Global Oncology Trials

    In a groundbreaking move poised to reshape the landscape of oncology clinical trials, IQVIA, a trailblazer in global clinical research services, has joined forces with SCRI Development Innovations, the contract research organization branch of Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI). This strategic collaboration aims to streamline and accelerate cancer research for biopharma partners worldwide, promising faster access to innovative therapies for patients battling cancer. Situated in the heart of Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, IQVIA brings a formidable reputation, managing one out of every five oncology trials across the United States with exceptional precision and integrating data, technology, and analytics seamlessly across the healthcare spectrum.

    This alliance combines IQVIA’s vast global infrastructure and technological prowess with SCRI’s renowned community oncology expertise and its operational model, Accelero. The Accelero system is a game-changer, cutting activation times for clinical trials and optimizing patient recruitment across over 250 locations in the U.S. Its ability to integrate electronic health record (EHR) data directly into electronic data capture systems streamlines the otherwise complex data collection process, eliminating barriers that traditionally slow down clinical research progress. In essence, this partnership delivers a powerful synergy—IQVIA’s robust analytics and global reach converge with SCRI’s deep clinical insights and operational efficiency, crafting a smoother, faster pathway from research setup to groundbreaking therapy delivery.

    Leaders from both organizations have expressed immense enthusiasm about the collaborative potential. Richard Staub, president of Research & Development Solutions at IQVIA, highlighted how merging the strengths of two industry leaders can eliminate the typical complications associated with managing multiple vendors in clinical trials. This focus on integration and efficiency is crucial as cancer therapies become increasingly complex, requiring adaptive trial designs and agile operational models. Dee Anna Smith, CEO of SCRI, echoed this optimism, emphasizing how the Accelero model reduces administrative burdens on research sites, boosts enrollment rates, and expedites data delivery using cutting-edge technology. This collaboration is not merely administrative—it’s a pivotal step toward enhancing patient outcomes through advanced, real-world oncology trial execution.

    For those invested in the future of cancer treatment, the upcoming American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting set in Chicago from May 30 to June 3 represents an unmissable opportunity. Both IQVIA and SCRI will be showcasing their innovative partnership at designated booths, offering insights into how their combined expertise accelerates cancer research and ultimately benefits patient care globally. Events like ASCO serve as critical convergence points where the latest advancements in oncology research and clinical trial innovation are shared, discussed, and propelled forward. The IQVIA-SCRI collaboration exemplifies the kind of concerted effort that fuels progress, marrying data-driven intelligence with hands-on clinical research capabilities on a global scale.

    To appreciate the full scope of this partnership, it helps to understand the backgrounds of the key players involved. IQVIA is distinguished not only by its size—with an impressive workforce of about 88,000 professionals spanning healthcare, life sciences, data science, and technology—but also for its commitment to ethical AI use and regulatory compliance. Its proprietary IQVIA Connected Intelligence™ platform leverages healthcare-grade AI and advanced analytics to offer actionable insights, facilitating smarter decision-making in clinical development and commercialization. On the other side, SCRI’s legacy spans over three decades and includes more than 850 first-in-human trials, with a network of over 1,300 physicians across 24 states. This extensive clinical presence allows SCRI to execute trials at community sites that are closer to patients’ homes, thereby democratizing access to cutting-edge cancer therapies and boosting participant diversity in clinical trials. Together, IQVIA and SCRI bring complementary strengths that are set to revolutionize oncology research and shorten the timeline between scientific discovery and patient benefit.

    #OncologyInnovation #ClinicalTrials #CancerResearch #IQVIA #SCRI #HealthcareAI #GlobalHealth

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  • Prevalence of Most Cancer Risk Factors Unchanged Before, After Pandemic

    During the tumultuous years of the COVID-19 pandemic, many aspects of public health faced unprecedented challenges and shifts. A recent study published online in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention on April 23 offers an insightful glimpse into how certain cancer risk factors evolved throughout this period and into the post-pandemic era. Spearheaded by Dr. Priti Bandi of the American Cancer Society in Atlanta, the research delved deep into major modifiable cancer risk factors, the uptake of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, and screening trends among U.S. adults before, during, and after the pandemic. The findings reveal a hopeful story marked by a continued decline in smoking rates and increased cancer screening, but also highlight areas where progress remains stubbornly stagnant, such as obesity and physical inactivity.

    One of the standout results from the study is the encouraging drop in smoking prevalence among U.S. adults. Smoking rates decreased from 14.2 percent in 2019 to 11 percent in 2023, signaling a significant public health victory. While this downward trajectory is heartening, it's important to note that disparities persist. Certain groups, including American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black men, those with lower educational attainment, and bisexual women, continued to report higher smoking rates than the national average. This aligns with longstanding data illuminating disparities in tobacco use, driven in part by targeted marketing, socioeconomic factors, and historical inequities. Interestingly, the pandemic may have acted as a catalyst for some smokers to quit, perhaps due to heightened awareness of respiratory health risks associated with COVID-19 or increased access to cessation resources via telehealth platforms. In fact, the intersection of respiratory illnesses and smoking risk underscores why reducing smoking is more critical than ever.

    However, not all major cancer risk factors showed progress. Despite public health emphasis on maintaining a healthy weight, rates of excess body weight remained virtually unchanged from the pre-pandemic period through August 2023. Overweight status lingered at 31.8 percent, while obesity prevalence remained high at 40.4 percent. These numbers are sobering considering that excess body weight is linked to at least 13 different types of cancers, including breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. Moreover, the pandemic’s lockdowns and pervasive lifestyle changes may have made it harder for many individuals to maintain physical activity or balanced nutrition. The study also found that a majority of adults—51.5 percent—did not meet recommended aerobic activity levels, and heavy alcohol use persisted at 6.4 percent without apparent fluctuation over the 2020 to 2022 period. These insights reflect the stubborn complexity of lifestyle-related risk factors, which are influenced by personal habits, social environments, economic access, and policy frameworks.

    On a brighter note, the study documents encouraging trends in certain preventive health measures. For example, the prevalence of up-to-date HPV vaccination among adolescents aged 13 to 17 hovered at about 61.4 percent between 2021 and 2023. This plateau comes after years of steady increases, suggesting the need for renewed public health campaigns to boost vaccination coverage. HPV vaccination is a cornerstone of cancer prevention, given its efficacy in protecting against cervical and other HPV-related cancers. Furthermore, cancer screening rates for breast and colorectal cancers improved from 2019 to 2023, reaching 79.9 percent and 60.4 percent, respectively. This recovery follows initial declines or stagnations seen during the pandemic’s height, reflecting both the resilience of healthcare systems and the importance of screening in early cancer detection. Notably, early diagnosis through screening is often crucial in improving survival rates and reducing treatment burdens.

    The findings of this comprehensive study by Dr. Bandi and colleagues send a mixed but nuanced message. There are historic gains against smoking and positive rebounds in cancer screening that hold promise for reducing cancer incidence and mortality. Yet, stubbornly high obesity rates, insufficient physical activity, steady levels of heavy alcohol use, and plateaued HPV vaccination coverage reveal persistent public health challenges that require intensified, innovative interventions. Addressing these issues will mean prioritizing equity-driven strategies tailored to vulnerable populations, leveraging technology and community engagement, and fostering environments conducive to healthy lifestyles. In an era where the convergence of infectious diseases and chronic conditions like cancer is increasingly evident, such integrated approaches could be pivotal in shaping a healthier future for all Americans.

    #CancerPrevention #PublicHealth #SmokingCessation #ObesityEpidemic #HPVVaccine #CancerScreening #COVID19Impact

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  • OncoHost wins €2.5m grant to advance precision oncology

    OncoHost has secured a €2.5m ($2.8m) grant from the EIC Transition Programme, an initiative under the EU’s broader Horizon Europe funding programme, to develop a novel biomarker capable of predicting cancer patient responses to immunotherapy.

    Known as NeutroFlow, Israeli biotech OncoHost is leading the biomarker’s development alongside consortium partners including Heidelberg University Hospital and the European Institute of Oncology (EIO).

    EIO professor Francesco Bertolini said the funding represented a “unique and precious” opportunity to translate preclinical data into clinically validated biomarkers for selecting the most appropriate therapy for cancer patients and to mitigate unnecessary side effects.

    NeutroFlow is being developed to identify a subset of cells found in the blood called Ly6Ehi neutrophils, given the high expression level of the Ly6E marker on the cells’ surface. It will support the prediction of immunotherapy responses in melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), renal cell carcinoma (RCC), head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and triple-negative breast cancer.

    New research published in Cancer Cell found that Ly6Ehi neutrophil cells can serve as a strong pre-treatment biomarker for response to Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), a cancer treatment approach intended to enhance the body’s immune system to fight different cancer types.

    OncoHost said that NeutroFlow will take the form of a simple, point-of-care test and that the neutrophil sub-population will be easily detected with flow cytometry, an instrument readily available in most medical centres.

    Heidelberg University Hospital professor Petros Christopoulos commented: “We are looking forward to helping advance Neutroflow as the first cell-based immunotherapy biomarker into daily clinical practice to further personalise our patient care.”

    According to OncoHost, although ICIs have seen much success, their effectiveness has been largely confined to a subset of patients. This emphasises the importance of predictive biomarkers in clinical decision-making to gain a clearer understanding of treatment response.

    OncoHost CEO Ofer Sharon commented: “As the absence of reliable and highly predictive biomarkers continues to be a significant challenge in immuno-oncology, we are consistently driving innovation and expanding our proprietary profiling platform, PROphet, to address additional indications.”

  • Improving Cancer Detection, Screening Uptake in Community Oncology: Constance Blunt, MD

    Improvements in early detection of breast and colorectal cancers can be attributed to increased access due to Medicaid expansion, says Constance Blunt, MD, medical oncologist, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center.

    This transcript was lightly edited; captions were auto-generated.

    Transcript

    Since the Affordable Care Act requirement for preventive screenings took effect about a decade ago, have patients with certain cancers been diagnosed earlier than in the years before the requirement?

    We've noticed a trend for several decades that overall, early detection or earlier diagnosis of multiple cancer types was improving, and that has translated into an overall improvement of survival for cancer patients. A big part of that is early detection. We have seen an increase in early detection in Louisiana and within our organization at Mary Bird Perkins. Two common tumor types are both breast and colorectal. For the patients that are coming in to get screened, most of those cases are being diagnosed very early-stage or where we have just regional disease. A minority of those cases, fewer of those cases are patients who have metastatic disease, and that's huge. The earlier we diagnose a cancer, the more likely we are to be able to give someone curative intent treatment, and that's where we get that bigger survival benefit. We have definitely seen an increase in early detection, and that's partly because these patients have access to be able to get in and get these preventative things done.

    Did you see any additional uptick once Louisiana added Medicaid expansion?

    Uptake across multiple tumor types, specifically breast, colorectal, and even lung. Lung is probably where we see a big impact, partly because we now have comprehensive lung cancer screening recommendations, and again, we have access to get large populations of people early screenings.

    Can you tell us about the Prevention on the Go program?

    At Mary Bird Perkins, at the core of what we do, cancer prevention and saving lives is at the root of all of that. This Prevention on the Go Program seeks to bring cancer screenings, patient education, even primary care resources to communities that have limited access. We know that even a small financial inconvenience or a small travel to a patient can mean the difference between not having a doctor's appointment and actually being able to make that appointment. By taking our mobile services and our collaborative relationships with providers across the region, we are in people's workplaces. We are in their community. We are at their churches.

    With a phone call or just a simple visit to one of our mobile events, patients are now signed up for age-appropriate screenings. They are diverted to primary care service and other resources to help, for lot of patients, start their health journey or fill in the gaps of things that they were unable to get done in their own communities. There's an area in Louisiana where a gastroenterologist left, found a new job and moved for whatever reason, and there was no one else available in that region to provide those screening colonoscopies, and so we saw a decline in how many patients were getting colonoscopies. That's a big deal. Just one provider change or one clinic move, can really stop access for a larger group of people.

    Through our partnerships, when we find these patients in the community, and we're doing health screenings, we're checking vital signs, we're getting them set up for their mammogram or their colonoscopy, if you don't have a primary care doctor, we kind of tell you, "Well, these are the things that you need to be looking for.” We help patients find physicians that are closer to their home or that accept their insurance or that are available to take appointments. It's not just about cancer screening; it's about the entire preventative care spectrum. Those partnerships have been really, really crucial. Sometimes, through repeated interactions or repeated referrals to a doctor, it's now just a phone call, you pick up the phone, “Hey, I need this.” It's easier for patients to get the care that they need through these relationships and ongoing collaborations.

  • Pathos AI raises $365m for oncology drug development

    Pathos AI, an innovative player in the oncology drug development landscape, has secured an impressive $365 million in its Series D funding round, signaling a significant leap forward for its AI-enabled platform. This substantial financial boost elevates Pathos AI's post-money valuation to approximately $1.6 billion, underscoring the high expectations investors have for its cutting-edge approach to cancer drug discovery. The influx of capital is earmarked for advancing the company’s clinical-stage pipeline and enhancing its unique AI Foundation Model, which is specifically tailored for oncology applications.

    What sets Pathos AI apart in the crowded biotech and AI field is its focus on creating a multimodal foundation model that integrates diverse data types—clinical, imaging, and molecular. This approach is akin to giving the AI a multidimensional view of cancer, allowing it to better refine the selection of clinical assets, optimize study designs, and uncover novel biomarkers. These capabilities are crucial because oncology drugs often face significant hurdles during development, including identifying the right patient populations and predicting clinical outcomes accurately. By leveraging such a broad spectrum of data, Pathos AI aims to tackle these challenges head-on, ultimately accelerating the pace at which new cancer treatments reach patients.

    Iker Huerga, CEO of Pathos AI, articulated the company’s bold vision: “Pathos was founded to transform drug development by harnessing the full potential of multimodal data and AI.” He emphasized that the new funds will help build “one of the most advanced AI engines,” which promises not only to speed up drug development but also to deepen clinical insights and ensure that innovative therapies are precisely targeted to those who need them most. This human-centered approach to AI-driven drug development could reshape the oncology landscape by addressing one of the field’s biggest frustrations—the lengthy timelines and high failure rates traditionally associated with bringing new cancer drugs to market.

    A tangible example of Pathos AI’s groundbreaking efforts comes from its recent progress in clinical trials. In March 2025, the company announced the dosing of the first patient in its Phase Ib/IIa clinical trial, which evaluates its first clinical-stage asset, pocenbrodib—a CBP/p300 inhibitor. The trial explores the efficacy of pocenbrodib both as a standalone therapy and in conjunction with existing drugs such as olaparib, abiraterone acetate, and 177Lu-PSMA-617 for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). This trial is notable for its focus on a highly challenging variant of prostate cancer, where traditional therapies often fall short, demonstrating Pathos AI’s commitment to addressing unmet medical needs.

    Further amplifying its impact, Pathos AI has entered a strategic multi-year collaboration with pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca and precision medicine company Tempus in April 2025. This partnership is designed to develop a large-scale, multimodal deep learning model that could revolutionize cancer drug discovery by rapidly identifying drug targets and fostering the creation of new treatments. Tempus will benefit from a lucrative $200 million licensing and model development agreement, reflecting the significant commercial and scientific potential of this alliance. Together, these companies are pushing the envelope on how artificial intelligence and deep clinical insights can converge to transform oncology drug pipelines, accelerating innovation and bringing hope to patients worldwide.

    This multifaceted approach to drug development represents a refreshing new model in oncology, where the integration of multimodal data, advanced AI technologies, and deep clinical insights open the door to faster and more precise therapeutic advances. By harnessing these tools, Pathos AI aims to overcome traditional bottlenecks and deliver life-saving treatments to cancer patients with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The company’s ambitious journey exemplifies how AI is no longer just a futuristic concept but a present-day force capable of reshaping one of medicine’s most formidable frontiers.

    #PathosAI #OncologyInnovation #AIDrugDevelopment #CancerResearch #BiotechFunding #PharmaPartnership #AIinHealthcare

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  • Startup Daymark Brings Value-Based Care Approach to Extending Oncology Care

    In a significant stride toward revolutionizing oncology care, Daymark Health, a promising startup dedicated to enhancing the cancer care experience, has recently launched with an impressive $11.5 million seed funding round. This financial backing was co-led by Maverick Ventures and Yosemite, with additional investment from Oncology Ventures, signaling strong confidence in Daymark’s innovative approach. Headquartered in Philadelphia, the company began operations earlier this year, teaming up with a payer in the Northeast to deliver evidence-based and supportive cancer care to over 2,500 patients. This partnership underscores the growing trend of startups collaborating with established healthcare payers, aiming to provide holistic and patient-centered care in an industry often criticized for its complexities and fragmentation.

    Daymark Health has been designed with a clear focus on addressing the multi-dimensional challenges faced by cancer patients. Unlike traditional care models that largely concentrate on clinical treatments, Daymark integrates clinical, mental health, and social support into one cohesive platform. The company employs a value-based care model that takes on total cost of care risk contracts with health plans. This is particularly significant because it shifts the healthcare landscape from a volume-driven framework to one centered around patient outcomes and cost efficiency. By partnering with payers, Daymark assembles a community-based team comprised of nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, and health partners. These professionals collaborate closely with patients’ oncologists and primary care providers to deliver coordinated care both virtually and in the patient’s home environment. This comprehensive approach ensures patients receive care navigation, 24/7 support, mental health assistance, symptom management, and social support—elements that are often overlooked but are crucial to the overall well-being of individuals grappling with cancer.

    The CEO and co-founder of Daymark Health, Dr. Justin Bekelman, brings a wealth of expertise to the enterprise, combining his role as an oncologist with prior leadership experience at Penn Medicine's Center for Cancer Care Innovation at the Abramson Cancer Center. Dr. Bekelman emphasizes the company’s commitment to transforming oncology care. He points out a persistent issue in cancer treatment: despite remarkable advancements over the past five decades, patients frequently encounter a fragmented healthcare system that hinders comprehensive, personalized care. Daymark’s platform is positioned to address this gap by redefining what’s possible in oncology. The goal is ambitious yet essential—to create a seamless care experience that integrates every aspect of a patient’s journey, from diagnosis and treatment to psychosocial support and survivorship. This holistic model not only enhances patient outcomes but also promises to reduce healthcare costs through improved care coordination.

    It’s fascinating to note that Daymark Health’s model resonates with a broader movement in healthcare emphasizing patient-centric and value-based practices. Across the country, healthcare systems are increasingly recognizing the importance of social determinants of health—factors like economic stability, social community, and mental health—that profoundly influence patient outcomes. Cancer care, in particular, benefits immensely from this approach because the disease affects patients far beyond their physical health. Daymark’s platform leverages technology and a multidisciplinary care team to ensure that patients’ emotional and social needs are met. The inclusion of 24/7 access to support and home-based care options also speaks to how modern healthcare is evolving to be more accessible and responsive to patients’ lives. Through such innovations, Daymark Health is helping to usher in an era where cancer care is not only about battling the disease but also about nurturing the whole person.

    The launch of Daymark Health, backed by significant seed funding and a talented leadership team, is an exciting development in the fight against cancer. It reflects a growing recognition in the healthcare sector that simply advancing medical treatments is not enough; true progress demands a comprehensive care experience that addresses every facet of a patient’s journey. By bringing together evidence-based medical care, mental health support, social resources, and advanced management of care delivery costs, Daymark is poised to set new standards in oncology care. As the company expands its partnerships and patient reach, its innovative model may become a blueprint for future healthcare startups aiming to tackle complex chronic conditions through integrated, value-based frameworks. For patients, families, and providers alike, ventures like Daymark Health offer renewed hope in transforming cancer care into a more compassionate, effective, and patient-focused endeavor.

    #CancerCareInnovation #ValueBasedHealthcare #OncologyStartup #MentalHealthSupport #PatientCenteredCare #HealthcareTech #DaymarkHealth

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  • MAIA Biotechnology Accepted for Poster Presentation at American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2025 Annual Meeting

    CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MAIA Biotechnology, Inc. (NYSE American: MAIA), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing targeted immunotherapies for cancer, today announced that an abstract about the efficacy data from the Phase 2 THIO-101 clinical trial was accepted for poster presentation at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), taking place May 30 to June 3, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois. The poster is scheduled for presentation on May 31, 2025, from 01:30pm to 04:30pm CDT in the Lung Cancer track.

    “We continue to believe that our telomere targeting agent ateganosine (THIO) could become a best-in-class anticancer treatment with the potential to challenge the standard of care for NSCLC,” said MAIA CEO Vlad Vitoc, M.D. “Treatment with ateganosine has shown excellent efficacy in third-line NSCLC to date and we look forward to presenting our findings at ASCO 2025 on May 31st.”

    Poster Presentation Details

    Poster title: “Phase 2 Study of Telomere-Targeting Agent THIO Sequenced With Cemiplimab in Third-Line Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor–Resistant Advanced NSCLC: Evaluation of Overall Survival”

    Session date and time: May 31, 2025, 01:30pm to 04:30pm CDT

    Presenter: Tomasz Jankowski, M.D.

    MAIA’s poster will be available on the Publications page of MAIA’s website on the day of the presentation.

    About ASCO 2025

    The 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting will feature over 200 sessions and more than 5,000 posters complementing the theme, “Driving Knowledge to Action: Building a Better Future,” reflecting the meeting’s tradition of inspiring and advancing the oncology field with the power of the latest knowledge in cancer care.

    About Ateganosine

    Ateganosine (THIO, 6-thio-dG or 6-thio-2’-deoxyguanosine) is a first-in-class investigational telomere-targeting agent currently in clinical development to evaluate its activity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Telomeres, along with the enzyme telomerase, play a fundamental role in the survival of cancer cells and their resistance to current therapies. The modified nucleotide 6-thio-2’-deoxyguanosine induces telomerase-dependent telomeric DNA modification, DNA damage responses, and selective cancer cell death. Ateganosine-damaged telomeric fragments accumulate in cytosolic micronuclei and activates both innate (cGAS/STING) and adaptive (T-cell) immune responses. The sequential treatment with ateganosine followed by PD-(L)1 inhibitors resulted in profound and persistent tumor regression in advanced, in vivo cancer models by induction of cancer type–specific immune memory. Ateganosine is presently developed as a second or later line of treatment for NSCLC for patients that have progressed beyond the standard-of-care regimen of existing checkpoint inhibitors.

    About THIO-101, a Phase 2 Clinical Trial

    THIO-101 is a multicenter, open-label, dose finding Phase 2 clinical trial. It is the first trial designed to evaluate ateganosine’s anti-tumor activity when followed by PD-(L)1 inhibition. The trial is testing the hypothesis that low doses of ateganosine administered prior to cemiplimab (Libtayo®) will enhance and prolong immune response in patients with advanced NSCLC who previously did not respond or developed resistance and progressed after first-line treatment regimen containing another checkpoint inhibitor. The trial design has two primary objectives: (1) to evaluate the safety and tolerability of ateganosine administered as an anticancer compound and a priming immune activator (2) to assess the clinical efficacy of ateganosine using overall response rate (ORR) as the primary clinical endpoint. The expansion of the study will assess ORR in advanced NSCLC patients receiving third line (3L) therapy who were resistant to previous checkpoint inhibitor treatments (CPI) and chemotherapy. Treatment with ateganosine followed by cemiplimab (Libtayo®) has been generally well-tolerated to date in a heavily pre-treated population. For more information on this Phase 2 trial, please visit ClinicalTrials.gov using the identifier NCT05208944.

    About MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

    MAIA is a targeted therapy, immuno-oncology company focused on the development and commercialization of potential first-in-class drugs with novel mechanisms of action that are intended to meaningfully improve and extend the lives of people with cancer. Our lead program is ateganosine, a potential first-in-class cancer telomere targeting agent in clinical development for the treatment of NSCLC patients with telomerase-positive cancer cells. For more information, please visit www.maiabiotech.com.

    Forward Looking Statements

    MAIA cautions that all statements, other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our or our industry’s actual results, levels or activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those anticipated by such statements. The use of words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “future,” “potential,” or “continue,” and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that statements are not forward-looking. For example, all statements we make regarding (i) the initiation, timing, cost, progress and results of our preclinical and clinical studies and our research and development programs, (ii) our ability to advance product candidates into, and successfully complete, clinical studies, (iii) the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals, (iv) our ability to develop, manufacture and commercialize our product candidates and to improve the manufacturing process, (v) the rate and degree of market acceptance of our product candidates, (vi) the size and growth potential of the markets for our product candidates and our ability to serve those markets, and (vii) our expectations regarding our ability to obtain and maintain intellectual property protection for our product candidates, are forward looking. All forward-looking statements are based on current estimates, assumptions and expectations by our management that, although we believe to be reasonable, are inherently uncertain. Any forward-looking statement expressing an expectation or belief as to future events is expressed in good faith and believed to be reasonable at the time such forward-looking statement is made. However, these statements are not guarantees of future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors beyond our control that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. In this release, unless the context requires otherwise, “MAIA,” “Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us” refers to MAIA Biotechnology, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

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  • American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) to host Annual Meeting in San Francisco, September 27-October 1 | Newswise

    The 67th American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) Annual Meeting is officially opening registration today, marking a significant event for the global oncology community. Set against the vibrant backdrop of San Francisco, the conference will take place from September 27 to October 1, 2025, at the prestigious Moscone Center. This gathering is anticipated to draw up to 10,000 attendees, including oncologists, clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across the world. The theme for this year’s meeting—“Rediscovering Radiation Medicine and Exploring New Indications”—spotlights the dynamic evolution of radiation therapy. Traditionally associated with cancer treatment, radiation therapy is now broadening its horizons to tackle a variety of non-cancerous ailments such as osteoarthritis, certain cardiac conditions, and functional brain disorders, reflecting the field’s rapid innovations.

    ASTRO’s Annual Meeting promises an intellectually stimulating agenda packed with more than 2,500 research presentations and posters. These contributions will explore the latest advancements in radiation oncology and cancer care, offering attendees a comprehensive overview of scientific breakthroughs and clinical innovations. The meeting also features a rich slate of expert panels, storytelling sessions, and hands-on workshops covering a wide array of pressing topics. Among these are survivorship care for adolescent and young adult cancer patients, cancer treatment challenges in conflict zones, and the establishment of radiopharmaceutical therapy programs. Such diverse sessions foster collaborative learning and share insights that extend beyond traditional cancer care, highlighting ASTRO’s commitment to improving patient outcomes worldwide.

    A particularly inspiring highlight of the meeting is the keynote addresses delivered by two distinguished physicians who offer unique perspectives as both medical experts and patients. Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, the president-elect of the American Medical Association who underwent surgery for a grade 2 brain tumor in late 2024, will share his insights. Dr. Bryant Lin, a Stanford Medicine professor living with stage 4 lung cancer, will also bring his invaluable experience to the forefront. Their stories underscore the human side of medicine and radiation therapy, providing a powerful narrative that bridges clinical practice and personal resilience. Complementing these talks will be a Presidential Symposium designed to showcase the latest clinical data and emerging treatments in radiation therapy for non-cancer conditions. This event will feature a multidisciplinary panel of experts discussing treatments for musculoskeletal issues such as plantar fasciitis and osteoarthritis, cardiac disorders like arrhythmias and early heart failure, as well as functional neurologic conditions such as Parkinson’s-related tremors.

    Attendees at the ASTRO 2025 Annual Meeting will have the flexibility to participate either in person or virtually through livestreams, ensuring broad accessibility. Those joining on-site at the Moscone Center will benefit from exploring the ASTRO Exhibit Hall, which highlights cutting-edge technologies poised to transform patient care. Moreover, the meeting offers a robust media program designed to disseminate the most impactful research findings presented during the conference. ASTRO news briefings will provide detailed coverage of breakthrough studies and innovative therapies, available both in-person and online to registered press. Media representatives can take advantage of dedicated interview facilities and a fully equipped press office situated within the venue, fostering an environment of open communication and engagement with scientific leaders.

    For those interested in diving deeper into the future of radiation oncology or seeking timely updates from the world’s premier radiation oncology conference, ASTRO’s Annual Meeting website serves as a comprehensive resource. It contains detailed information about registration, session schedules, speakers, and special events. Media professionals can access press kits and contact ASTRO’s media relations team to arrange interviews or obtain additional information. This year’s meeting promises to be more than a conference; it will be a pivotal forum for rediscovering and redefining the power of radiation therapy, expanding its role beyond traditional cancer treatment into new therapeutic frontiers. With its blend of groundbreaking science, patient-centered narratives, and collaborative learning, the ASTRO Annual Meeting stands as a beacon of innovation and hope within the global healthcare community.

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