As part of the three-year deal, several collaborative studies will be conducted in tumor types such as gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Under the deal, the first studies are scheduled to start enrolling patients later this year which will define what combination modalities will work best with Keytruda in these tumors types by exploring new alternatives.
In order to determine optimal regimens in the most efficient manner possible, the trials will be conducted in parallel and they will feature state-of-the-art monitoring protocols and built-in flexibility to take advantage of the very latest information available.
MD Anderson cancer medicine division head Patrick Hwu said: "Through these types of collaborations, we are able to engage in larger, more comprehensive studies that aim to accelerate the pace of discovery.
"We believe that this new agreement will help to speed delivery of new cancer treatments that our patients expect and deserve."
Merck’s Keytruda is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2.
Merck Research Laboratories oncology late-stage development senior vice-president and therapeutic area head Dr Roger Dansey said: "This agreement embodies Merck’s commitment to collaborating with leaders in the field to rapidly advance breakthrough science and further the goal of bringing new treatment approaches to patients.
"Agreements like this are an integral part of our strategy to evaluate Keytruda in multiple tumors and combinations."
Image: Merck and MD Anderson will evaluate Keytruda in combination with other treatments for new cancer drugs. Photo: courtesy of Michelle Meiklejohn/ freedigitalphotos.net.