AllianceBernstein L.P.(US:AB) Globenewswireยท2025-10-16 18:57Core Insights - AB Science SA has provided initial Phase 1 data for the combination of AB8939 with Venetoclax for treating refractory or relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) [1] Group 1: Clinical Data and Efficacy - Early data indicates that AB8939, either as monotherapy or in combination, shows significant activity in high-risk subtypes of AML [2] - The combination of AB8939 and Venetoclax has demonstrated a disease control rate of 100% (3/3) and a partial response rate of 100% (3/3), including one patient achieving complete remission after the first treatment cycle [5][9] - AB8939 has shown activity in MECOM, with long overall survival benefits, and is effective in cell lines resistant to standard treatments [10][8] Group 2: Mechanism of Action - AB8939 operates through a dual mechanism: disrupting microtubules to block leukemia cell proliferation and targeting leukemia stem cells by inhibiting ALDH [10][11] - The combination with Venetoclax is expected to enhance apoptosis in cancer cells, as AB8939 destabilizes microtubules while Venetoclax inhibits the BCL2 pathway, which is crucial for AML resistance [11] Group 3: Market Potential - The addressable market for AB8939 in relapsed/refractory AML is estimated to exceed EUR 2 billion annually [13] - The total incidence of AML cases is approximately 90,200 globally, with significant relapse rates, indicating a persistent unmet medical need [14] Group 4: Next Steps and Development Plans - The next steps include completing Phase 1 in combination therapy and launching an expansion study involving around 15 AML patients eligible for AB8939 + Venetoclax [12] - Discussions with regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EMA are ongoing regarding potential registrational studies for AB8939 [13] Group 5: Intellectual Property - AB8939's intellectual property rights in AML are secured until 2036, with potential extensions until 2044 for specific genetic abnormalities [18]