Core Viewpoint - Elicio Therapeutics is initiating a Phase 1 investigator-initiated trial to evaluate ELI-002 7P in combination with chemotherapy and an anti-PD1 checkpoint inhibitor for treating borderline and resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) [1][2][4] Company Overview - Elicio Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing novel immunotherapies for cancer, particularly targeting high-prevalence cancers like mKRAS-positive pancreatic and colorectal cancers [11] - The company's lead product candidate, ELI-002, is an investigational AMP cancer vaccine targeting KRAS mutations, which are prevalent in many human cancers [5][11] Trial Details - The upcoming trial will evaluate mFOLFIRINOX in combination with ELI-002 7P, with or without the anti-PD-1 antibody, enrolling 20 patients across two cohorts [2][8] - The trial is expected to commence in the first half of 2026 [2][8] Scientific Rationale - The combination of standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy with innovative immunotherapies aims to convert "cold" tumors into "hot" tumors, enhancing T-cell responses and potentially improving surgical outcomes and long-term survival [3][4] - ELI-002 7P has shown robust T-cell responses in previous trials, targeting the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of PDAC [3][4] Future Prospects - If Phase 1 results are positive, the company plans to expand the treatment to a broader population, potentially benefiting more PDAC patients and enhancing commercial opportunities [4][11] - Elicio's AMP technology aims to improve immune activation and promote durable cancer immunosurveillance, with plans to expand ELI-002 to other indications, including mKRAS-positive lung cancer [11]