NextCure, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTC) has announced the dosing of the first patient in its Phase 1 clinical trial evaluating LNCB74, a B7-H4-targeting antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), as a potential therapeutic for multiple cancers. This marks a significant step in the development of a novel treatment option for patients with cancers that have shown resistance or progression on existing therapies.
The Phase 1 study is designed to assess the safety, tolerability, and early anti-tumor activity of LNCB74. The trial will enroll patients with various types of cancer to provide a broad understanding of the drug's potential efficacy and safety profile. The initiation of this trial follows the FDA's clearance of NextCure's Investigational New Drug (IND) application for LNCB74 in December 2024.
Targeting B7-H4 in Cancer Therapy
B7-H4 is a protein expressed on multiple tumor types, making it an attractive target for cancer therapy. LNCB74, as an ADC, is designed to selectively deliver a cytotoxic payload to cancer cells expressing B7-H4, potentially minimizing damage to healthy tissues. This targeted approach could offer a more effective and less toxic treatment option for patients with B7-H4-positive cancers.
Udayan Guha, M.D., Ph.D., NextCure's Senior Vice President, Clinical & Translational Development, stated, "Dosing the first patient in the LNCB74 Phase 1 study is a significant milestone for NextCure as we continue to advance our B7-H4 ADC program. We look forward to establishing the safety, tolerability, and preliminary anti-tumor activity of LNCB74. We believe this novel ADC could potentially transform treatment options for multiple cancers."
Collaboration and Future Development
LNCB74 is being developed in partnership with LigaChem Biosciences, Inc., highlighting the collaborative efforts driving innovation in cancer therapeutics. NextCure's focus remains on advancing innovative medicines for cancer patients who have not responded to, or have disease progression on, current therapies. The company leverages its expertise in biological pathways, biomarkers, and the tumor microenvironment to develop differentiated therapies.
As a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, NextCure is committed to discovering and developing first-in-class and best-in-class therapies to treat cancer. The Phase 1 study of LNCB74 represents a crucial step in this mission, with the potential to provide a new treatment option for patients with various cancers.
