Idera's cancer drug disappoints in Phase II

Cambridge, MA-based Idera Pharmaceuticals is reporting disappointing preliminary results from a Phase II trial of IMO-2055. The primary endpoint--tumor response based on RECIST (response evaluation criteria in solid tumors)--wasn't met. Idera looked at the bright side, however, noting that IMO-2055 was well-tolerated for prolonged treatment durations in many patients. "The progression-free survival data are comparable with other studies of immunotherapies used for this hard-to-treat RCC patient population," said Alice Bexon, MBChB, Vice President of Clinical Development. "This study has provided us with valuable experience with IMO-2055 and will help guide the clinical development of IMO-2055."

The drug is also being tested in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Merck KGaA is Idera's partner on the drug.

- see Idera's release