Core Insights - The CD47 target was once highly sought after by global pharmaceutical companies, likened to the next PD-1, but has since faced significant challenges and failures in drug development [1][3][14] - Despite the setbacks, companies like I-Mab and Kangfang Biotech remain optimistic about the potential of CD47-targeted therapies, with ongoing clinical trials [5][9][14] Industry Overview - CD47 is a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed on various cancer cells, which helps tumors evade the immune system by sending a "don't eat me" signal to macrophages [3][5] - Major pharmaceutical companies, including Gilead and Pfizer, have made substantial investments in CD47-targeted therapies, with Gilead acquiring Forty Seven for $4.9 billion, but faced failures in clinical trials [3][5][12] - In China, over 20 clinical approvals for CD47-targeted drugs have been granted, but many companies, including Hengrui and Innovent, have halted their trials due to disappointing results [4][5][12] Company Developments - I-Mab is advancing two Phase III clinical trials for its CD47-targeted therapies, while Kangfang Biotech is conducting multiple trials for its drug, Lefanlimab [5][9] - I-Mab's approach to CD47 is distinct, as it utilizes a non-antibody drug that binds more selectively to cancer cells, potentially reducing toxicity and improving dosing [8][9] - Kangfang Biotech is optimizing its drug structure to minimize red blood cell aggregation, which is a significant issue with CD47 antibodies [9][12] Market Sentiment - The global pharmaceutical industry has invested nearly 100 billion RMB in CD47 research without a successful drug to date, leading to a cautious approach from investors and companies [5][12] - There is a growing sentiment that the investment climate for innovative drugs is improving, with increased activity from investment funds in the sector [11][16]