Immutep (IMMP) Up as Combo Therapy Meets Carcinoma Study Goals

Core Insights - Immutep's proprietary soluble LAG-3 protein, efti, is being developed as a cancer treatment in combination with Merck's Keytruda, showing promising results in clinical trials for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) [1][10]. Efficacy and Safety - The combination therapy of efti and Keytruda achieved an objective response rate (ORR) of 35.5% and a disease control rate (DCR) of 58.1% in patients with negative PD-L1 expression, significantly higher than historical controls [2][11]. - The treatment demonstrated a complete response rate of 9.7%, compared to 0% in historical controls for anti-PD-1 monotherapy [2]. - More than 50% of patients treated with the combination therapy have maintained their response for at least six months, with no new safety concerns reported [3]. Regulatory and Development Plans - Based on the positive efficacy and safety data, the company plans to engage with regulatory agencies regarding the next steps for efti [4]. - In addition to HNSCC, Immutep is exploring efti in combination with other agents for various solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer and metastatic breast cancer [5]. Market Position and Competitors - Merck's Keytruda continues to expand into new indications and markets, reinforcing its position in the oncology market, accounting for 47% of Merck's pharmaceutical sales in 2023 [6][14]. - Immutep currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), while other companies in the biotech sector, such as Arcutis Biotherapeutics and Annovis Bio, have better rankings [7][15]. Stock Performance - Year to date, shares of Immutep have decreased by 3.7%, contrasting with a 2.5% decline in the industry [18].