Percheron Therapeutics Ltd earlier this week reported new preclinical data showing that its investigational cancer drug HMBD-002 substantially blocked tumour growth in a triple-negative breast cancer mouse model. Dr James Garner joined Proactive to discuss.
Highlights
- Percheron Therapeutics released new preclinical data showing HMBD-002 substantially blocked tumour growth in a triple-negative breast cancer mouse model.
- Builds on earlier positive data in head and neck cancer, which involved combination therapy with radiotherapy.
- Latest results show activity as a monotherapy, suggesting versatility in use.
- HMBD-002’s activity may extend beyond immune modulation, potentially differentiating it from existing treatments like Keytruda.
- Phase 1 human trial final data expected in Q4 2025.
- The company plans to outline phase 2 human trial strategy following the release of Phase 1 data.
Building on positive preclinical and early clinical data
Percheron's results were “really encouraging” and pointed to the drug’s potential in addressing a difficult-to-treat form of breast cancer. It highlighted that the findings build on earlier data in head and neck cancer, where HMBD-002 was tested in combination with radiotherapy.
The latest breast cancer data involves the drug as a monotherapy, which it said could indicate a broader range of clinical applications.
Advancing towards Phase 2 trials
The company noted that HMBD-002 works by modulating the immune system and directing it against tumours, but the new findings suggest it may also have additional mechanisms of action. It said this could differentiate HMBD-002 from existing treatments such as Keytruda, which work purely through immune modulation.
Looking ahead, Percheron told investors that final data from its completed phase 1 human trial is expected in the fourth quarter of 2025. It added that the results would inform its plans to progress into phase 2 human trials in the following year. The company said these next steps would be “very exciting” and that it was focused on identifying the most promising opportunities for HMBD-002 in future cancer treatment strategies.