Coherus BioSciences and Shanghai Junshi Biosciences face a temporary setback in their pursuit of FDA approval for toripalimab, as COVID-19 related travel restrictions in China prevent crucial manufacturing facility inspections. The regulatory review for this promising treatment for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) continues beyond its expected December 23, 2022 action date.
The FDA has maintained the application under active review while working with both companies to establish pre-approval inspection plans. The delay stems specifically from the FDA's requirement to conduct an on-site inspection of Junshi Biosciences' manufacturing facility, which has been hindered by ongoing travel restrictions in China.
Therapeutic Applications and Priority Review Status
The Biologics License Application (BLA) for toripalimab encompasses two critical treatment scenarios:
- First-line treatment in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin for patients with advanced recurrent or metastatic NPC
- Monotherapy for second-line or later treatment of recurrent or metastatic NPC in patients who have undergone platinum-containing chemotherapy
The FDA's grant of priority review status for both indications underscores the significant unmet medical need in treating NPC, an aggressive form of head and neck cancer that currently lacks FDA-approved treatment options.
Clinical Significance
The development of toripalimab represents a potential breakthrough in the treatment landscape for NPC patients. This aggressive head and neck tumor has historically presented significant therapeutic challenges, with limited treatment options available to patients who have progressed on or after platinum-based chemotherapy.
Regulatory Path Forward
Both Coherus and Junshi Biosciences remain actively engaged with the FDA to facilitate the required manufacturing facility inspection. The companies continue to work toward addressing this final regulatory requirement, while the fundamental review of toripalimab's safety and efficacy data proceeds.
