Diakonos Oncology is set to present new data on its lead product, DOC1021, at the Biotech Showcase 2025 in San Francisco. The clinical-stage biotechnology company is leveraging its proprietary dendritic cell technology to address unmet needs in aggressive cancers, including glioblastoma (GBM) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
Jay Hartenbach, President and COO of Diakonos Oncology, will present the company's recent milestones and research developments on January 15, 2025. A key highlight will be DOC1021, an autologous dendritic cell vaccine (DCV) poised to enter a Phase 2 clinical trial for GBM in the first half of 2025. The trial will enroll patients at leading treatment centers throughout the United States.
DOC1021: A Novel Approach to Cancer Immunotherapy
DOC1021 is designed to initiate a robust cytotoxic TH1 immune response against a patient's cancer. Diakonos' proprietary double loading technology allows the vaccine to target the complete cancer antigen profile through dual protein and RNA antigen sourcing. This synergistic approach aims to maximize tumor cell killing while maintaining a favorable safety profile, negating the need for myelosuppressive preconditioning chemotherapy or high-dose IL-2 administration.
"Our unique cellular vaccine product targets the complete tumor antigen profile and induces powerful memory T cell responses against some of the most aggressive cancers," said Mr. Hartenbach. "We are excited to share the latest clinical data, which continues to exceed expectations with ongoing patient survival, and to present our plans for future trials in new indications."
Clinical Development and Regulatory Status
In addition to the upcoming Phase 2 GBM trial, DOC1021 is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1 clinical trial for PDAC, with enrollment expected to complete later in 2025. The FDA has granted Fast Track designation to DOC1021 for both the GBM and PDAC programs, and Orphan Drug Designation for the GBM program, underscoring the urgent need for new treatment options in these difficult-to-treat cancers.
Diakonos Oncology is also planning to initiate a study in refractory melanoma later this year, further expanding the potential applications of DOC1021.
