Phio Pharmaceuticals Announces Pathology Results for Four of Five Patients in Fourth Cohort

Core Insights - Phio Pharmaceuticals has reported promising pathology results from its ongoing Phase 1b clinical trial, indicating potential efficacy of its treatment PH-762 for skin cancers [2][3][5]. Group 1: Clinical Trial Results - In the fourth cohort of the trial, one patient with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) achieved a complete pathologic response, indicating 100% tumor clearance [2][4]. - A patient with Stage 4 metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma showed a partial response with over 50% tumor clearance [2][4]. - Two patients with cSCC exhibited pathologic non-response, with less than 50% tumor clearance, while results for one remaining patient are still pending [2][4]. Group 2: Safety and Tolerability - The Phase 1b trial has treated a total of 15 patients across four cohorts, with no dose-limiting toxicities or significant treatment-emergent adverse effects reported [3][5]. - PH-762 has been well tolerated among all enrolled patients, with no clinical progression of disease observed [3][5]. Group 3: Future Directions - Phio Pharmaceuticals is currently enrolling patients for what is expected to be the fifth and final cohort in the Phase 1b study [5]. - The CEO of Phio Pharmaceuticals expressed optimism that the positive safety and efficacy outcomes suggest PH-762 could serve as a viable non-surgical alternative in the expanding skin cancer market [5][6]. Group 4: Company Overview - Phio Pharmaceuticals is a clinical-stage siRNA biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapeutics using its proprietary INTASYL® gene silencing technology, particularly in the field of immuno-oncology [6]. - The lead clinical program, PH-762, targets the PD-1 gene associated with various skin cancers, including cSCC, melanoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma [6].