Phase 2 Pivotal Trials to Evaluate Efficacy of THIO in Combination with BeiGene’s Checkpoint Inhibitor (CPI) tislelizumab
Introduction
MAIA Biotechnology, Inc. ("MAIA"), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing targeted immunotherapies for cancer, today announced that it has entered into a clinical supply agreement with global oncology company BeiGene to assess the efficacy of THIO, its small molecule telomere-targeting anticancer agent, in combination with BeiGene’s immune checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) tislelizumab in three cancer indications. This collaboration marks an exciting step forward for MAIA and its efforts to bring innovative therapies to patients with unmet medical needs.
Background on THIO
THIO (6-thio-dG or 6-thio-dGuo) is a potent, first-in-class, small molecule that targets telomeres in cancer cells. By inducing the release of telomeric fragments into the cytosol, THIO activates both innate (cGAS/STING) and adaptive (T-cell) immune responses against tumor cells. This unique mechanism of action has shown promise in preclinical studies, with THIO demonstrating profound and persistent tumor regression in advanced cancer models by induction of cancer type–specific immune memory.
Collaboration with BeiGene
The agreement between MAIA and BeiGene aims to leverage the complementary strengths of both companies to accelerate the development of THIO. By combining THIO with tislelizumab, a highly effective CPI, the goal is to create a synergistic therapeutic approach that can potentially improve outcomes for patients with cancer.
Clinical Trial Objectives
The Phase 2 pivotal trials will evaluate the efficacy and safety of THIO in combination with tislelizumab in three separate indications: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and colorectal cancer (CRC). Key objectives of these studies include:
- Efficacy: To assess the overall response rate (ORR) and progression-free survival (PFS) of patients treated with THIO + tislelizumab compared to control arms.
- Safety: To evaluate the safety profile of THIO in combination with tislelizumab, including adverse event (AE) rates and incidence of immune-related AEs.
Potential Benefits
The combination of THIO and tislelizumab offers several potential benefits for patients:
- Enhanced Efficacy: By targeting telomeres and activating the immune system, THIO may enhance the anti-tumor activity of tislelizumab.
- Increased Durability: The combination therapy aims to induce long-lasting immune memory, potentially improving outcomes for patients with cancer.
Conclusion
The collaboration between MAIA and BeiGene represents a significant step forward in the development of innovative therapies for patients with cancer. With its unique mechanism of action and promising preclinical data, THIO has the potential to become a game-changer in the treatment of various cancers.
About MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.
MAIA is a targeted therapy, immuno-oncology company focused on developing and commercializing potential first-in-class drugs with novel mechanisms of action that can meaningfully improve and extend the lives of people with cancer.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those anticipated by these forward-looking statements.
Investor Relations Contact
For more information, please contact:
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