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THE FASTER WE MOVE

Promising Advancements in Oncology Research Unveiled at ASCO Annual Meeting

Updated: Jun 7, 2023

The highly anticipated ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago is set to showcase groundbreaking research and advancements in oncology.


Among the notable presentations are three pivotal studies that have the potential to significantly impact cancer treatment and patient care. These studies, led by esteemed researchers, delve into the effectiveness of innovative therapies and therapeutic strategies in three different types of cancer: human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) early breast cancer, hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer, and advanced penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC).


3-Year Invasive Disease-Free Survival (iDFS) of the Strategy-Based, Randomized Phase II PHERGain Trial Evaluating Chemotherapy De-Escalation in HER2+ Early Breast Cancer

The first significant study to be presented as an oral presentation at the ASCO Annual Meeting is the PHERGain trial, investigating chemotherapy de-escalation in HER2+ early breast cancer. Led by Dr. Javier Cortés from MEDSIR, the International Breast Cancer Center (IBCC), and the Universidad Europea de Madrid, this trial focuses on optimizing treatment strategies for HER2+ early breast cancer patients.


The PHERGain trial assesses the efficacy of de-escalating chemotherapy in HER2+ early breast cancer patients. By evaluating the 3-year invasive disease-free survival (iDFS) outcomes, the study aims to determine the feasibility and safety of reducing chemotherapy intensity in this patient population. This research is vital in refining treatment approaches and minimizing potential toxicities without compromising patient outcomes.


Second-line Endocrine Therapy with or without Palbociclib Maintenance in Patients with HR+/HER2- Advanced Breast Cancer: PALMIRA Trial

Another groundbreaking study being presented as an oral presentation at ASCO is the PALMIRA trial, investigating second-line endocrine therapy with or without palbociclib maintenance in patients with HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer who have had a confirmed progressive disease on first-line palbociclib plus endocrine therapy-based treatment after having previously achieved a clinical benefit on this regimen. Led by Dr. Antonio Llombart-Cussac from MEDSIR and Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, this trial explored whether a palbociclib rechallenge could improve outcomes for this subset of breast cancer patients.


The PALMIRA trial explores the efficacy and safety of combining palbociclib, a cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitor, with endocrine therapy in HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer. The study aims to determine whether this combination approach enhances progression-free survival compared to endocrine therapy alone, providing valuable insights into optimal treatment strategies for this patient population.


Phase II Study of the Efficacy of Retifanlimab (INCMGA00012) in Penile Squamous Cell Carcinoma (PSCC): ORPHEUS Final Analysis

One of the significant posters of the ASCO Annual Meeting is the presentation of the "Phase II Study of the Efficacy of Retifanlimab in Penile Squamous Cell Carcinoma: ORPHEUS Final Analysis". This study, led by Dr. Xavier Garcia del Muro from the Institut Català d’Oncologia (ICO,) explores the effectiveness of retifanlimab in treating advanced PSCC. PSCC is a rare and aggressive form of cancer with limited treatment options. The study aims to assess the efficacy of retifanlimab, an innovative immunotherapy, in improving outcomes for patients with advanced PSCC.


Retifanlimab, also known as INCMGA00012, is a promising immune checkpoint inhibitor that targets the PD-1 receptor. By blocking the PD-1 pathway, retifanlimab reactivates the body’s immune response against cancer cells. The ORPHEUS final analysis presents a crucial opportunity to evaluate the potential of retifanlimab as a therapeutic option for PSCC patients.


See You at ASCO!

The ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago is poised to unveil groundbreaking research that has the potential to transform oncology research and patient care. The three studies mentioned above, led by esteemed researchers Dr. Javier Cortés, Dr. Antonio Llombart-Cussac, and Dr. Xavier García del Muro, explore innovative approaches in treating HER2+ early breast cancer, HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer, and advanced PSCC, respectively.


These studies hold great promise in improving treatment options, optimizing therapeutic strategies, and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes. The presented research highlights the dedication and innovation of these researchers and their invaluable contributions to the field of oncology. MEDSIR is proud to support these studies, and we can’t wait to share the results with you!



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