STAT+: Inhibrx claims first win for long-sought immunotherapy target

Benefit largely driven by small subset of patients Adobe Jason is a general assignment reporter, with particular focus on genetic medicine and rare disease. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at JasonMast.77. Inhibrx said Tuesday that its experimental immunotherapy targeting a protein called OX40 showed responses in patients with head and neck cancer. But the most striking results were in a small subset of patients with HPV-positive tumors, which could significantly limit the drug’s use. The results are notable as a legion of drugmakers — including Pfizer, Genentech, GSK, and AstraZeneca — previously tried and failed to use OX40 as a weapon against tumors over the past 15 years. “It’s just really gratifying for us,” said CEO Mark Lappe. “Pushing this is like a rock up a hill, because there’s been so much failure in the space.” STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the biotech sector — by subscribing to STAT+. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe General Assignment Reporter Jason is a general assignment reporter, with particular focus on genetic medicine and rare disease. Confidential tips can be sent on Signal at JasonMast.77.