Positive Topline Results for Immutep’s Head and Neck Cancer Treatment

Immutep Limited (Nasdaq: IMMP) has reported positive preliminary topline results from Cohort B of its TACTI-003 Phase 2b trial evaluating eftilagimod alpha (efti) in combination with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) as first-line treatment of recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients (1L HNSCC) with negative PD-L1 expression. The combination therapy demonstrated an overall response rate of 26.9% and disease control rate of 57.7% in 26 patients.

This new data adds to the body of evidence that efti’s novel activation of antigen-presenting cells provides a powerful boost to the immune system, which enhances the potential of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Efti has received FDA Fast Track designation in 1L HNSCC regardless of PD-L1 expression.

HNSCC is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. It is aggressive and difficult to treat, and is associated with high levels of psychological distress in patients, and compromised quality of life. There is significant unmet need for improved treatment options for HNSCC patients.

Dr. Martin Forster of the UCL Cancer Institute and University College London Hospital NHS Foundation, London, UK, and TACTI-003 Investigator, stated, “These preliminary topline results in the first line setting for patients with head and neck squamous cell cancers that do not express PD-L1 are encouraging.

“Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas are a heterogenous disease that represent a high unmet medical need regardless of PD-L1 expression. This is especially the case for patients with tumors that do not express PD-L1 and those that cannot receive chemotherapy. The ability of efti to work with MSD’s anti-PD-1 therapy KEYTRUDA® to potentially improve patients’ clinical responses and expand patient populations that respond to the latter, without using chemotherapy, is promising.”

About Immutep

Immutep is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel LAG-3 immunotherapy for cancer and autoimmune disease. We are pioneers in the understanding and advancement of therapeutics related to Lymphocyte Activation Gene-3 (LAG-3), and our diversified product portfolio harnesses its unique ability to stimulate or suppress the immune response. Immutep is dedicated to leveraging its expertise to bring innovative treatment options to patients in need and to maximise value for shareholders. For more information, please visit www.immutep.com.