Innate Pharma SA has announced the dosing of the first patient in its Phase 1 clinical trial evaluating IPH4502, a novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting Nectin-4, in patients with advanced solid tumors. The trial, registered as NCT06781983, is designed to assess the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of IPH4502 as a single agent.
The study is an open-label, multi-center trial that includes a dose escalation phase followed by a dose optimization phase. It aims to enroll approximately 105 patients with advanced solid tumors known to express Nectin-4, including urothelial carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, breast, ovarian, gastric, esophageal, and colorectal cancers.
Rationale for IPH4502 Development
IPH4502 is designed to precisely target Nectin-4, a cell adhesion molecule overexpressed in several types of solid tumors. This overexpression makes Nectin-4 a promising target for ADC therapies. The ADC is composed of a topoisomerase I inhibitor payload, conjugated to an antibody that binds to Nectin-4. Preclinical models have shown that IPH4502 is well-tolerated and exhibits anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo.
Clinical Significance
Dr. Shiraj Sen, Medical Oncologist and Phase 1 Investigator, Director of Clinical Research, NEXT Oncology-Dallas, stated, "IPH4502 is uniquely designed to target tumors with both high and low expression of Nectin-4, offering hope for improved outcomes in a population where effective treatment options are limited, and relapses occur frequently."
Innate Pharma's Perspective
Dr. Sonia Quaratino, Chief Medical Officer at Innate Pharma, added, "The initiation of this Phase 1 trial represents a significant milestone for Innate Pharma as our clinical stage pipeline now includes targeted ADCs. We are optimistic about the potential of IPH4502 to address unmet needs in the treatment of advanced solid tumors, with a well differentiated Nectin-4 targeting and the promise of ADC technology to provide a new therapeutic option for patients."
About Nectin-4
Nectin-4 is a cell membrane adhesion protein overexpressed in several solid tumors, including urothelial, breast, esophageal, lung, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers, with limited expression in normal tissues. This makes it an attractive target for cancer therapy.
