Latest news with #cancertherapy
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
SMALL CAP IDEA: Poolbeg Pharma raises £4.1m to finance cancer drugs
Raising fresh capital is a familiar rhythm for early-stage biotech companies. For Poolbeg Pharma, the question is not simply whether it can fund its ambitions, but whether its pipeline can justify them. Expert opinion is broadly optimistic on this point - bolstered by a major tick in the box from the US regulator. The company recently announced a £4.1million equity raise, priced at 2.5p per share, a 12 per cent discount to the market price, to finance the next stage of development for its two lead assets. They are POLB 001, targeting cancer immunotherapy induced cytokine release syndrome (CRS), and an oral glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist designed for obesity treatment. The latter is a next-generation, easier-to-administer upgrade to jabs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro. Tackling a major cancer therapy bottleneck POLB 001 is seen as a potential game-changer. It is being developed to tackle cytokine release syndrome, a serious complication arising in patients undergoing CAR-T or bispecific antibody therapies, where an overactive immune response can lead to high fevers, low blood pressure and organ failure. According to analysts at Shore Capital, CRS affects over 70 per cent of patients receiving such therapies and has been a major limiting factor in their wider deployment. POLB 001 is designed as an oral preventative treatment, a notable shift from existing drugs like Roche's injectable Actemra, which is approved for treating CRS after symptoms appear. Broker Cavendish notes that Poolbeg's preclinical and human challenge data already show clear suppression of key inflammatory cytokines. If Phase 2a data confirm this, the company could be first to market with an oral CRS prophylactic, a development that Cavendish estimates could unlock a market opportunity exceeding $10billion, initially in blood cancers and potentially in solid tumours too. The Phase 2a trial is expected to begin in the second half of this year. Big Pharma is reportedly providing the bispecific antibody therapy used in the trial at no cost, a move analysts at both Shore and Cavendish interpret as early validation of POLB 001's commercial promise. Crucially, the putative treatment recently received orphan drug designation from the America's Food & Drug Administration, which significantly enhances POLB 001's commercial appeal, especially when engaging prospective partners. This regulatory tick in the box can't be overstated. Seeking a slice of the weight loss boom Poolbeg's second programme enters another multibillion-dollar market: obesity. With injectable GLP-1 agonists such as Ozempic and Wegovy driving record revenues for Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, the race is now on to develop effective oral formulations that improve patient convenience and compliance. Poolbeg's answer is a proprietary microencapsulation technology licensed from AnaBio. A proof-of-concept study will begin this year at the University of Ulster, with topline data due in the first half of 2026. ShoreCap argues that the approach could provide a differentiated product in a market forecast to reach $150billion by the early 2030s. Cash, catalysts and credibility Cavendish notes Poolbeg ended the first quarter of 2025 with £6.2million in cash. The current raise, assuming shareholder approval, will extend the company's runway into 2027. That should be enough to reach multiple clinical milestones and, ideally, deliver the data needed to secure commercial partners. Importantly, the raise also comes with insider backing. Executive chair Cathal Friel has committed to invest £100,000, providing a measure of confidence in the company's direction. Execution Still, investors should keep their eyes on execution. While both POLB 001 and the GLP-1 asset are tackling real clinical problems with significant market potential, they remain pre-revenue and subject to trial risk. Poolbeg's ability to translate promise into partnerships will be the key driver of any future valuation shift. Cavendish maintains a 19p target on the shares, implying significant upside from the current 2.9p. But for that to materialise, the next 12 to 18 months will need to deliver more than just well-funded plans. They will need hard data. For all the latest small- and mid-cap news go to
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
CARsgen Presents Research Results on Satri-cel in The Lancet and at the 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting
SHANGHAI, June 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CARsgen Therapeutics Holdings Limited (Stock Code: a company focused on developing innovative CAR T-cell therapies, announces that the results of the pivotal Phase II clinical trial in China (CT041-ST-01, NCT04581473) investigating satricabtagene autoleucel ("satri-cel", CT041) (a Claudin18.2-specific autologous CAR T-cell product candidate) in patients with Claudin18.2-positive, advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancer refractory to at least two prior lines of treatment, have been published in The Lancet and were orally presented at the 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting. Further details have been posted on the corporate website The article in The Lancet was titled "Claudin-18 isoform 2-specific CAR T-cell therapy (satri-cel) versus treatment of physician's choice for previously treated advanced gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction cancer (CT041-ST-01): a randomised, open-label, phase 2 trial". Full article available at: The oral presentation at the 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting (Abstract 4003) was titled "Claudin18.2-specific CAR T cells (Satri-cel) versus treatment of physician's choice (TPC) for previously treated advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer (G/GEJC): Primary results from a randomized, open-label, phase II trial (CT041-ST-01)". Professor Lin Shen from Beijing Cancer Hospital, the principal investigator of this study, said, "The CT041-ST-01 trial represents the world's first randomized controlled clinical study of CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors. In patients with heavily pretreated, advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancer who have extremely limited treatment options and poor prognosis, satri-cel has demonstrated breakthrough efficacy with significant clinical benefits, including much improved progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and tumor response rates. This brings new hope to patients with otherwise medically untreatable conditions. We are further exploring satri-cel's potential in adjuvant settings and as first-line sequential therapies, aiming to intervene earlier in the disease course, extend patients' survival, and ultimately pursue potential cures." Dr. Zonghai Li, Founder, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Scientific Officer of CARsgen Therapeutics, said, "We are honored that the CT041-ST-01 study results were published in The Lancet—a premier, global medical journal—and presented at the 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting. The positive result of this randomized controlled trial marks a major milestone in solid tumor CAR-T therapy. These achievements are a testament to the whole research team's years of dedication, and we extend our deepest gratitude to patients and their families for their trust and participation. This year, satri-cel has been granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation and Priority Review by the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for the treatment of Claudin18.2-positive advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (G/GEJA) in patients who have failed at least two prior lines of therapy. We plan to submit a New Drug Application (NDA) for satri-cel to the NMPA this month and anticipate its approval as the world's first commercially available CAR-T product for solid tumors, bringing benefits to patients." About Satri-cel Satri-cel is an autologous CAR T-cell product candidate against the protein Claudin18.2 that has the potential to be the first-in-class globally. Satri-cel targets the treatment of Claudin18.2-positive solid tumors with a primary focus on G/GEJA and pancreatic cancer (PC). Initiated trials include investigator-initiated trials (CT041-CG4006, NCT03874897), a confirmatory Phase II clinical trial for advanced G/GEJA in China (CT041-ST-01, NCT04581473), a Phase Ib clinical trial for PC adjuvant therapy in China (CT041-ST-05, NCT05911217), an investigator-initiated trial for satri-cel be used as consolidation treatment following adjuvant therapy in patients with resected G/GEJA (CT041-CG4010, NCT06857786), and a Phase 1b/2 clinical trial for advanced gastric or pancreatic adenocarcinoma in North America (CT041-ST-02, NCT04404595). Satri-cel has been granted Priority Review by the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for the treatment of Claudin18.2-positive advanced G/GEJA in patients who have failed at least two prior lines of therapy in May 2025. Satri-cel has been granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation by the CDE of China's NMPA for the treatment of Claudin18.2-positive advanced G/GEJA in patients who have failed at least two prior lines of therapy in March 2025. Satri-cel was granted Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy designation by U.S. FDA for the treatment of advanced G/GEJA with Claudin18.2-positive tumors in January 2022. Satri-cel received Orphan Drug designation from the U.S. FDA in September 2020 for the treatment of G/GEJA. About CARsgen Therapeutics Holdings Limited CARsgen is a biopharmaceutical company focusing on developing innovative CAR T-cell therapies to address the unmet clinical needs including but not limited to hematologic malignancies, solid tumors and autoimmune diseases. CARsgen has established end-to-end capabilities for CAR T-cell research and development covering target discovery, preclinical research, product clinical development, and commercial-scale production. CARsgen has developed novel in-house technologies and a product pipeline with global rights to address challenges faced by existing CAR T-cell therapies. Efforts include improving safety profile, enhancing the efficacy in treating solid tumors, and reducing treatment costs, etc. CARsgen's mission is to be a global biopharmaceutical leader that provides innovative and differentiated cell therapies for patients worldwide and makes cancer and other diseases curable. Forward-looking Statements All statements in this press release that are not historical fact or that do not relate to present facts or current conditions are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements express the Group's current views, projections, beliefs and expectations with respect to future events as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and factors beyond the Group's control. As a result, they are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, and actual events or results may differ materially from these forward-looking statements and the forward-looking events discussed in this press release might not occur. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those detailed under the heading "Principal Risks and Uncertainties" in our most recent annual report and interim report and other announcements and reports made available on our corporate website, No representation or warranty is given as to the achievement or reasonableness of, and no reliance should be placed on, any projections, targets, estimates or forecasts contained in this press release. Contact CARsgen For more information, please visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE CARsgen Therapeutics Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Bicara Therapeutics Demonstrates Deep and Durable Responses with Ficerafusp Alfa Plus Pembrolizumab in 1L HPV-Negative R/M HNSCC at ASCO 2025
Median DOR of 21.7 months with 80% of responders achieving a deep response (≥80% tumor shrinkage) Depth and durability translating to prolonged OS with median OS of 21.3 months and 2-year OS of 46% in HPV-negative HNSCC Conference call and webcast today at 3:00 p.m. CT / 4:00 p.m. ET BOSTON, June 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bicara Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq: BCAX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to bringing transformative bifunctional therapies to patients with solid tumors, today presented updated data from the company's Phase 1/1b clinical trial of ficerafusp alfa in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with first line (1L) recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. Ficerafusp alfa is a first-in-class bifunctional antibody designed to enhance tumor penetration by breaking barriers in the tumor microenvironment that have challenged the treatment of multiple solid tumor cancers. Specifically, ficerafusp alfa combines two clinically validated targets: an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) directed monoclonal antibody with a domain that binds to human transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). 'Ficerafusp alfa was specifically designed to impact the tumor stroma and drive tumor penetration with the goal of leading to deeper and more durable responses. We've now begun to see this translate clinically, with responses lasting nearly two years and contributing to prolonged overall survival in HPV-negative patients, a population that typically faces poor outcomes due to resistance to available therapies,' said David Raben, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Bicara Therapeutics. 'The strength of the totality of this updated dataset, including 80% of responders achieving a deep response of at least 80% tumor shrinkage, median duration of response of 21.7 months, median progression free survival of 9.9 months, overall survival of 21.3 months, and a 2-year overall survival rate of 46%, provides compelling support for the continued advancement of FORTIFI-HN01, our pivotal Phase 2/3 trial in the first-line recurrent/metastatic setting.' Key highlights from the presentation include: 'These latest Phase 1/1b data are impressive, particularly the duration of response, which represents a significant advance over historical controls in patients with HPV-negative recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, including anti-PD-1 combinations with chemotherapy or EGFR inhibitors,' said Christine H. Chung, MD, Chair of the Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology and Deputy Physician-in-Chief at the Moffitt Cancer Center. 'This reflects the enhanced ability of ficerafusp alfa to remodel the tumor microenvironment allowing the tumor penetration of immune cells required for deep and durable responses in these patients. In addition, the prolonged overall survival, highlighted by a median OS of 21.3 months, reinforces the potential of ficerafusp alfa to address a critical unmet need by delivering durable anti-tumor responses and meaningful improvements in patients' quality of life.' Conference Call and Webcast Information Bicara Therapeutics will host a conference call and webcast today, June 1, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. CT / 4:00 p.m. ET. Individuals may register for the conference call by clicking the link here. Once registered, participants will receive dial-in details and a unique PIN which will allow them to access the call. An audio webcast will be accessible through the Investor Relations section of Bicara's website under Events and Presentations. Following the live webcast, an archived replay will also be available. About Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) develop from the mucosal epithelium in the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx and are the most common malignancies that arise in the head and neck. HNSCC is one of the most common cancers in the United States and globally with a rising incidence anticipated to reach one million new global cases annually by 2030. Ten percent of HNSCC patients are diagnosed with metastatic disease and up to 30% develop a recurrence or metastases over time after receiving initial treatment for advanced HNSCC. Most cases of HNSCC are thought to result from accumulated mutations caused by carcinogenic exposures such as tobacco smoke or HPV infection. Approximately 80% of patients with R/M HNSCC are HPV-negative. These HPV-negative tumors often exhibit a recurrence pattern that is primarily local and are associated with severe morbidities, including fatal tumor bleeding, intense pain, difficulty swallowing, significant weight loss, and cachexia. This highlights a critical unmet need for therapies that have the potential to deliver durable anti-tumor responses, ultimately leading to meaningful improvements in patients' quality of life. About Ficerafusp Alfa Ficerafusp alfa is a first-in-class bifunctional antibody designed to drive tumor penetration by breaking barriers in the tumor microenvironment that have challenged the treatment of multiple solid tumor cancers. Specifically, ficerafusp alfa combines two clinically validated targets: an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) directed monoclonal antibody with a domain that binds to human transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). Through this targeted mechanism, ficerafusp alfa reverses the fibrotic and immune-excluded tumor microenvironment driven by TGF-β signaling to enable tumor penetration that drives deep and durable responses. Ficerafusp alfa is currently being evaluated in FORTIFI-HN01, a pivotal Phase 2/3 clinical trial in patients with first line (1L) recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). About Bicara Therapeutics Bicara Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to bringing transformative bifunctional therapies to patients with solid tumors. Bicara's lead program, ficerafusp alfa, is a first-in-class bifunctional antibody designed to drive tumor penetration by breaking barriers in the tumor microenvironment that have challenged the treatment of multiple solid tumor cancers. Specifically, ficerafusp alfa combines two clinically validated targets: an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) directed monoclonal antibody with a domain that binds to human transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). Through this targeted mechanism, ficerafusp alfa reverses the fibrotic and immune-excluded tumor microenvironment driven by TGF-β signaling to enable tumor penetration that drives deep and durable responses. Ficerafusp alfa is being developed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, where there remains a significant unmet need, as well as other solid tumor types. For more information, please visit or follow us on LinkedIn or X. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including, without limitation, implied and express statements regarding Bicara's clinical development of ficerafusp alfa in combination with pembrolizumab and presentation of updated results from an open-label, multicenter Phase 1/1b trial of ficerafusp alfa with pembrolizumab in patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and the expected therapeutic potential and ability, profile and clinical benefits of ficerafusp alfa, including potential and anticipated efficacy, depth, durability, tolerability, and success, and the potential clinical results from the Phase 2/3 pivotal trial of ficerafusp alfa. The words 'may,' 'might,' 'will,' 'could,' 'would,' 'should,' 'plan,' 'anticipate,' 'intend,' 'believe,' 'expect,' 'estimate,' 'seek,' 'predict,' 'future,' 'project,' 'potential,' 'continue,' 'target' and similar words or expressions, or the negative thereof, are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Any forward-looking statements in this press release are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties related to uncertainties inherent in the development of product candidates, including the conduct of research activities and the conduct and enrollment of clinical trials; uncertainties as to the availability and timing of results and data from clinical trials; whether results from prior preclinical studies and clinical trials will be predictive of the results of subsequent preclinical studies and clinical trials and regulatory developments in the United States and foreign countries, whether Bicara's cash resources will be sufficient to fund its foreseeable and unforeseeable operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements; as well as the risks and uncertainties identified in Bicara's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including in Bicara's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as any subsequent filings that Bicara makes with the SEC. In addition, forward-looking statements represent Bicara's views only as of today and should not be relied upon as representing its views as of any subsequent date. Bicara explicitly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. No representations or warranties (expressed or implied) are made about the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. Contacts Investors Rachel Frank [email protected] Media Amanda Lazaro 1AB [email protected]
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
2025 Silicon Valley Cancer Technology Conference
Palo Alto, CA June 01, 2025 --( )-- A Silicon Valley cancer therapy startup organization has announced its first 2025 Silicon Valley Cancer Therapy Tech Conference. The one day event will be held at the Stanford Faculty Club and will feature cutting-edge advancements in cancer treatment technology. Speakers include oncologists, biotech startup founders, scientists, researchers and industry experts. The agenda includes panels and presentations followed by a VC pitch event featuring cancer therapy technology startups. Sponsored by Cancer Therapy Startups. Contact Information: Haynes and Boone, LLP Roger Royse 650-245-3406 Contact via Email Roger Royse [email protected] Read the full story here: 2025 Silicon Valley Cancer Technology Conference Press Release Distributed by
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Bicara Therapeutics Demonstrates Deep and Durable Responses with Ficerafusp Alfa Plus Pembrolizumab in 1L HPV-Negative R/M HNSCC at ASCO 2025
Median DOR of 21.7 months with 80% of responders achieving a deep response (≥80% tumor shrinkage) Depth and durability translating to prolonged OS with median OS of 21.3 months and 2-year OS of 46% in HPV-negative HNSCC Conference call and webcast today at 3:00 p.m. CT / 4:00 p.m. ET BOSTON, June 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bicara Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq: BCAX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to bringing transformative bifunctional therapies to patients with solid tumors, today presented updated data from the company's Phase 1/1b clinical trial of ficerafusp alfa in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with first line (1L) recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. Ficerafusp alfa is a first-in-class bifunctional antibody designed to enhance tumor penetration by breaking barriers in the tumor microenvironment that have challenged the treatment of multiple solid tumor cancers. Specifically, ficerafusp alfa combines two clinically validated targets: an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) directed monoclonal antibody with a domain that binds to human transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). 'Ficerafusp alfa was specifically designed to impact the tumor stroma and drive tumor penetration with the goal of leading to deeper and more durable responses. We've now begun to see this translate clinically, with responses lasting nearly two years and contributing to prolonged overall survival in HPV-negative patients, a population that typically faces poor outcomes due to resistance to available therapies,' said David Raben, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Bicara Therapeutics. 'The strength of the totality of this updated dataset, including 80% of responders achieving a deep response of at least 80% tumor shrinkage, median duration of response of 21.7 months, median progression free survival of 9.9 months, overall survival of 21.3 months, and a 2-year overall survival rate of 46%, provides compelling support for the continued advancement of FORTIFI-HN01, our pivotal Phase 2/3 trial in the first-line recurrent/metastatic setting.' Key highlights from the presentation include: In the Phase 1/1b trial, ficerafusp alfa in combination with pembrolizumab resulted in deep and durable anti-tumor activity with improved overall survival (OS) compared to historical benchmarks in patients with 1L R/M human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative HNSCC with a PD-L1 combined positive score (CPS) of ≥1 and with at least 24 months of follow-up. In the efficacy evaluable human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative population (n=28): Median duration of response (DOR) of 21.7 months amongst responders (n=15). Median OS of 21.3 months; 2-year OS rate of 46%. 54% (15/28) confirmed objective response rate (ORR); 64% (18/28) ORR, including an additional three unconfirmed responses. 21% (6/28) complete response rate. 80% (12/15) of responders achieved a deep response (≥80% tumor shrinkage). Disease control rate of 89% (25/28 patients). Median progression-free survival of 9.9 months. Manageable safety profile consistent with previously reported adverse events. 'These latest Phase 1/1b data are impressive, particularly the duration of response, which represents a significant advance over historical controls in patients with HPV-negative recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, including anti-PD-1 combinations with chemotherapy or EGFR inhibitors,' said Christine H. Chung, MD, Chair of the Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology and Deputy Physician-in-Chief at the Moffitt Cancer Center. 'This reflects the enhanced ability of ficerafusp alfa to remodel the tumor microenvironment allowing the tumor penetration of immune cells required for deep and durable responses in these patients. In addition, the prolonged overall survival, highlighted by a median OS of 21.3 months, reinforces the potential of ficerafusp alfa to address a critical unmet need by delivering durable anti-tumor responses and meaningful improvements in patients' quality of life.' Conference Call and Webcast InformationBicara Therapeutics will host a conference call and webcast today, June 1, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. CT / 4:00 p.m. ET. Individuals may register for the conference call by clicking the link here. Once registered, participants will receive dial-in details and a unique PIN which will allow them to access the call. An audio webcast will be accessible through the Investor Relations section of Bicara's website under Events and Presentations. Following the live webcast, an archived replay will also be available. About Head and Neck Squamous Cell CarcinomaHead and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) develop from the mucosal epithelium in the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx and are the most common malignancies that arise in the head and neck. HNSCC is one of the most common cancers in the United States and globally with a rising incidence anticipated to reach one million new global cases annually by 2030. Ten percent of HNSCC patients are diagnosed with metastatic disease and up to 30% develop a recurrence or metastases over time after receiving initial treatment for advanced HNSCC. Most cases of HNSCC are thought to result from accumulated mutations caused by carcinogenic exposures such as tobacco smoke or HPV infection. Approximately 80% of patients with R/M HNSCC are HPV-negative. These HPV-negative tumors often exhibit a recurrence pattern that is primarily local and are associated with severe morbidities, including fatal tumor bleeding, intense pain, difficulty swallowing, significant weight loss, and cachexia. This highlights a critical unmet need for therapies that have the potential to deliver durable anti-tumor responses, ultimately leading to meaningful improvements in patients' quality of life. About Ficerafusp AlfaFicerafusp alfa is a first-in-class bifunctional antibody designed to drive tumor penetration by breaking barriers in the tumor microenvironment that have challenged the treatment of multiple solid tumor cancers. Specifically, ficerafusp alfa combines two clinically validated targets: an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) directed monoclonal antibody with a domain that binds to human transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). Through this targeted mechanism, ficerafusp alfa reverses the fibrotic and immune-excluded tumor microenvironment driven by TGF-β signaling to enable tumor penetration that drives deep and durable responses. Ficerafusp alfa is currently being evaluated in FORTIFI-HN01, a pivotal Phase 2/3 clinical trial in patients with first line (1L) recurrent/metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). About Bicara Therapeutics Bicara Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to bringing transformative bifunctional therapies to patients with solid tumors. Bicara's lead program, ficerafusp alfa, is a first-in-class bifunctional antibody designed to drive tumor penetration by breaking barriers in the tumor microenvironment that have challenged the treatment of multiple solid tumor cancers. Specifically, ficerafusp alfa combines two clinically validated targets: an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) directed monoclonal antibody with a domain that binds to human transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). Through this targeted mechanism, ficerafusp alfa reverses the fibrotic and immune-excluded tumor microenvironment driven by TGF-β signaling to enable tumor penetration that drives deep and durable responses. Ficerafusp alfa is being developed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, where there remains a significant unmet need, as well as other solid tumor types. For more information, please visit or follow us on LinkedIn or X. Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including, without limitation, implied and express statements regarding Bicara's clinical development of ficerafusp alfa in combination with pembrolizumab and presentation of updated results from an open-label, multicenter Phase 1/1b trial of ficerafusp alfa with pembrolizumab in patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and the expected therapeutic potential and ability, profile and clinical benefits of ficerafusp alfa, including potential and anticipated efficacy, depth, durability, tolerability, and success, and the potential clinical results from the Phase 2/3 pivotal trial of ficerafusp alfa. The words 'may,' 'might,' 'will,' 'could,' 'would,' 'should,' 'plan,' 'anticipate,' 'intend,' 'believe,' 'expect,' 'estimate,' 'seek,' 'predict,' 'future,' 'project,' 'potential,' 'continue,' 'target' and similar words or expressions, or the negative thereof, are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Any forward-looking statements in this press release are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties related to uncertainties inherent in the development of product candidates, including the conduct of research activities and the conduct and enrollment of clinical trials; uncertainties as to the availability and timing of results and data from clinical trials; whether results from prior preclinical studies and clinical trials will be predictive of the results of subsequent preclinical studies and clinical trials and regulatory developments in the United States and foreign countries, whether Bicara's cash resources will be sufficient to fund its foreseeable and unforeseeable operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements; as well as the risks and uncertainties identified in Bicara's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including in Bicara's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as any subsequent filings that Bicara makes with the SEC. In addition, forward-looking statements represent Bicara's views only as of today and should not be relied upon as representing its views as of any subsequent date. Bicara explicitly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. No representations or warranties (expressed or implied) are made about the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. Contacts InvestorsRachel FrankIR@ MediaAmanda Lazaro1ABAmanda@ in to access your portfolio
