Merus(US:MRUS) Globenewswireยท2025-08-05 20:07Core Insights - Merus N.V. announced promising clinical trial results for petosemtamab in combination with pembrolizumab, showing a 63% response rate among 43 evaluable patients and a 79% overall survival rate at 12 months in a phase 2 trial for PD-L1+ recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) [1][3][6] Clinical Trials and Efficacy - The ongoing LiGeR-HN1 and LiGeR-HN2 phase 3 trials are expected to be substantially enrolled by the end of 2025, with potential interim readouts in 2026 [4][5] - Initial clinical data for petosemtamab in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) is anticipated in the second half of 2025 [2][8] Financial Overview - The company completed a public offering raising $345 million in gross proceeds, which, along with existing cash and marketable securities, is expected to fund operations at least into 2028 [17][18] - Total revenue for Q2 2025 increased by $1.5 million compared to Q2 2024, driven by collaboration revenues [19] - Research and development expenses for Q2 2025 rose by $44.8 million, primarily due to increased clinical trial support related to petosemtamab [20] Collaborations and Licensing - Merus has established collaborations with several companies, including Incyte, Eli Lilly, Gilead Sciences, and Biohaven, focusing on the development of bispecific antibodies and novel therapies [11][12][15][16] - The company has licensed BIZENGRI for commercialization in the U.S. for specific cancer types, enhancing its market presence [9] Cash Position and Runway - As of June 30, 2025, Merus reported $892 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, providing a strong financial position to support ongoing and future clinical trials [18]