January 5, 2024 6:45 am ET
Global Phase 3 studies started for bomedemstat (LSD1 inhibitor), nemtabrutinib (BTK inhibitor), MK-2870 (anti-TROP2 ADC) and MK-5684 (CYP11A1 inhibitor)
Comprehensive clinical development programs being initiated for each investigational candidate
Demonstrates company’s commitment to research across novel mechanisms of action in hematologic neoplasms/malignancies, as well as lung, endometrial and prostate cancers
RAHWAY, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced the initiation of pivotal Phase 3 trials for four of its investigational candidates from its diverse pipeline in hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Global Phase 3 studies have been initiated and are actively enrolling for the following investigational candidates:
- Bomedemstat, an investigational orally available lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) inhibitor, being evaluated for the treatment of certain patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET);
- Nemtabrutinib, an investigational oral, reversible, non-covalent Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, being evaluated for the treatment of certain patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL);
- MK-2870, an investigational trophoblast cell-surface antigen 2 (TROP2)-directed antibody drug conjugate (ADC) being developed in collaboration with Kelun-Biotech, which is being evaluated for certain patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and certain patients with previously treated endometrial carcinoma;
- and MK-5684, an investigational CYP11A1 inhibitor being developed in collaboration with Orion, which is being evaluated for the treatment of certain patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).
“These Phase 3 trial initiations for four of our investigational candidates represent a critical step forward in our efforts to advance potential treatment options for people with solid tumors and hematologic neoplasms and malignancies,” said Dr. Marjorie Green, senior vice president and head of oncology, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories. “We have a proud legacy of turning breakthrough science into medicines that save and improve lives around the world, and we are dedicated to continuing research to expand our broad portfolio of oncology therapeutics to continue to address unmet needs in cancer care.”