Pfizer, Array BioPharma to study different anti-cancer combinations

Under the deal, the partners will assess Array's MEK inhibitor binimetinib in combination with Pfizer's investigational PARP inhibitor talazoparib and human anti-PD-L1 IgG1 monoclonal antibody avelumab.

They will evaluate the benefits of combining molecularly targeted therapeutics with the body's innate cancer-fighting abilities using immunotherapy.

As per terms of the deal, the companies will carry out a Phase 1b clinical trial to assess a series of novel combinations, including safety and efficacy of the combination of binimetinib, avelumab and talazoparib across various tumor types.

A multi-arm clinical study will be conducted to create recommended doses of different regimens combining the drugs.

The partnership will initially conduct research on novel combinations for non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer (NSCLC), while additional indications will be explored later.

The trial will start during the third quarter of 2018, and results secured from the study will be used to further develop different combinations.

Pfizer will provide financial support to the trial and Array will supply binimetinib required for the study.

Pfizer and Merck are involved in the development of avelumab to treat NSCLC and pancreatic cancer. Till now, the safety and efficacy of the drug has not been demonstrated.

Binimetinib is a late-stage and small molecule MEK inhibitor that targets key enzymes in the MAPK signaling pathway.

Array BioPharma CEO Ron Squarer said: "These novel approaches combining targeted therapy and immunotherapy hold great potential to help patients fighting cancer in different indications, with an initial main focus on lung and pancreatic cancer."

Pfizer global product development immuno-oncology, early development and translational oncology head and senior vice president Dr Chris Boshoff said: "We are looking forward to initiating the clinical studies with Array BioPharma to explore anti-tumor activity across various novel combination strategies, including both doublet and triplet approaches."