Akeso Inc.’s cadonilimab, the first dual immune checkpoint-based bispecific antibody to be approved anywhere worldwide, appears set to move into the gastric or gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) adenocarcinoma space in combination with chemotherapy as a potential standard first-line therapy after the company unveiled results from the Phase III COMPASSION-15 study.
AACR: Akeso’s Cadonilimab Shows 1L Potential In Adenocarcinoma
Promising Interim Phase III Data
With a clinical win in the Phase III COMPASSION-15 trial in gastric/gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma, Akeso's PD-1/CTLA-4-targeting agent is well positioned to expand its label beyond second- or third-line use for cervical cancer, and appears to stack up well against big global competitors. The Chinese firm is also aiming the bispecific antibody at hepatocellular and lung cancers.

More from China
Chinese biopharma companies’ alliance strategies are transitioning from immediate cash needs to more strategic management of portfolios, as MNCs continue to hunt for derisked assets.
Menarini's Asia-Pacific CEO talks to Scrip about how the Italian group is tailoring its portfolio and pricing approach to local markets making strong strides in primary care and consumer health, while also charting a distinct path in rare diseases and oncology. The China market is also a key focus including as a potential source of innovation as is partnering, where the group has a rich history.
AstraZeneca remains committed to investing in R&D and alliances in China, where Susan Galbraith, the UK major’s head of oncology R&D, sees innovation eventually reaching parity with the US and Europe.
After a more than three-year hiatus, China's Hengrui has signalled its return to multiregional Phase III trials as it looks to globalize its innovative pipeline. Meanwhile, a number of other Chinese players have announced plans to kick off Phase III trials this year and beyond.
More from Focus On Asia
Compass' bispecific antibody tovecimig hits primary efficacy endpoint in Phase II/III top-line data in advanced biliary tract cancer, and may have class side-effect advantages. But additional survival data may be needed to support US approval.
AstraZeneca remains committed to investing in R&D and alliances in China, where Susan Galbraith, the UK major’s head of oncology R&D, sees innovation eventually reaching parity with the US and Europe.
Trump announced a 26% reciprocal tariff on India but a country-agnostic exemption of pharmaceuticals implies that the interests of Indian firms and the US consumer are protected for now. What is Indian pharma’s business exposure and what is domestic industry saying?