Core Insights - Vaccinex, Inc. is presenting new data on pepinemab, a monoclonal antibody targeting SEMA4D, which enhances immune responses in neoadjuvant settings for head and neck cancer [2][5][6] - The upcoming presentation at the ASCO conference will detail how pepinemab treatment correlates with improved pathologic responses by inducing mature lymphoid structures [4][6] Company Overview - Vaccinex, Inc. is focused on innovative treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases through the inhibition of SEMA4D [8] - The lead drug candidate, pepinemab, is designed to block SEMA4D, which is implicated in immune cell infiltration and activation in tumors [7][9] Clinical Research and Development - Pepinemab is being evaluated in combination with other immunotherapies, such as KEYTRUDA and BAVENCIO, in various clinical trials for head and neck cancer and pancreatic adenocarcinoma [9][10] - Previous studies indicate that pepinemab can enhance immune cell interactions and improve treatment outcomes in patients with "cold" tumors, which are typically resistant to standard immunotherapy [5][6] Upcoming Events - The ASCO conference presentation is scheduled for June 1, 2025, focusing on the neoadjuvant biomarker trial of pepinemab in resectable head and neck cancer [4][5]

Core Viewpoint - Merck has agreed to acquire SpringWorks Therapeutics for $3.9 billion in equity value to enhance its oncology drug business [1][2] Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition price is set at $47 per share, translating to an equity value of approximately $3.9 billion and an enterprise value of about $3.4 billion (30 million euros) after accounting for SpringWorks' cash [1] - The transaction will be funded through available cash and new debt, and is expected to increase Merck's adjusted earnings per share by 2027 [1] Group 2: Strategic Implications - This acquisition marks one of Merck's largest pharmaceutical deals in recent years, reinforcing its ongoing efforts to build a cancer treatment portfolio [2] - Analysts suggest that this deal could accelerate Merck's growth, especially as sales of its cancer drug Bavencio slow down and its multiple sclerosis treatment Mavenclad faces patent expiration [2]