ASCO25: Merck KGaA ADC Shows Promise in Colorectal Cancer Trial

Merck KGaA's antibody-drug conjugate, precemtabart tocentecan, demonstrated safety and tolerability in a Phase Ib trial for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), as presented at ASCO 2025. The ongoing PROCEADE-CRC-01 study evaluates two IV doses (2.4mg/kg and 2.8mg/kg) in ~200 patients. As of March 25, 42% of patients in the expansion phase remain on treatment, with three continuing beyond nine months.

Results showed a 23.3-week median response duration, 6.9-month PFS, and 72% disease control rate at week 12. Common side effects included anemia and neutropenia, with no ILD, eye toxicity, or treatment-related deaths.

Investigator Dr. Scott Kopetz noted its favorable comparison to existing mCRC therapies. Precemtabart is also being explored in gastric, lung, and pancreatic cancers. Merck plans to advance the 2.8mg/kg dose and is developing additional ADCs, including M3554 in Phase I trials.

03-06-2025