Genmab's Petosemtamab-Keytruda Combo Cuts Death Risk 50% in Phase 3 Head and Neck Cancer Trial; GMAB Jumps 28.89%

Genmab A/S (GMAB) said its Phase 3 LiGeR-HN1 trial showed Petosemtamab plus Keytruda (pembrolizumab) significantly improved overall survival and tumor response versus pembrolizumab alone as a first-line treatment for PD-L1 positive recurrent or metastatic head and neck cancer. The stock rose 28.89% to $57.53. In the first interim analysis of the randomized, open-label study, the combination reduced the risk of death by 50% (hazard ratio 0.50; p-value as reported). Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma develops in the lining of the mouth, throat and voice box; recurrent or metastatic disease refers to cancer that has returned or spread. Petosemtamab is an investigational bispecific antibody targeting EGFR and LGR5 on tumor cells. The combination was generally well tolerated with no new safety signals, though efficacy and safety are not yet established. Genmab plans to engage global regulators and present full results at a future medical meeting, and is also testing Petosemtamab in Phase 3 trials for later-line head and neck cancer and previously treated colorectal cancer. GMAB has traded between $23.62 and $56.62 over the past year.