Replimune Group, Inc. has announced that the FDA has granted Breakthrough Therapy designation to RP1 (vusolimogene oderparepvec) in combination with nivolumab for the treatment of adult patients with advanced melanoma who have previously received an anti-PD1 containing regimen. The company has also submitted a biologics license application (BLA) to the FDA for RP1 in combination with nivolumab under the Accelerated Approval pathway.
The Breakthrough Therapy designation aims to expedite the development and review of therapies for serious conditions where preliminary clinical evidence suggests substantial improvement over existing treatments on clinically significant endpoints. This designation is supported by safety and clinical activity data from the anti-PD1 failed melanoma cohort of the IGNYTE clinical trial.
RP1's Mechanism of Action
RP1 (vusolimogene oderparepvec) is Replimune’s lead oncolytic immunotherapy candidate. It is based on a proprietary strain of herpes simplex virus engineered with a fusogenic protein (GALV-GP R-) and GM-CSF. This design intends to maximize tumor-killing potency, enhance the immunogenicity of tumor cell death, and activate a systemic anti-tumor immune response.
Ongoing Phase 3 Trial
The confirmatory Phase 3 IGNYTE-3 trial is currently enrolling patients with advanced melanoma who have progressed on anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4 therapy, or who are not candidates for anti-CTLA-4 treatment. This trial aims to confirm the efficacy and safety of RP1 in combination with nivolumab in this patient population.
Executive Perspective
"Today is an important milestone for Replimune and for the melanoma community as we are one step closer to having another potential treatment available for patients who have limited options after progressing on anti-PD1 containing regimens," said Sushil Patel, Ph.D., CEO of Replimune.
