Mutant RAS platform
The mutant RAS program is based on our neoantigen vaccine targeting mutant RAS cancers,
covering up to eight different mutations. Oncogenic RAS mutations are the key genetic driver
behind many cancers and therefore considered a central target in oncology drug development. A
32-patient phase I/II clinical trial evaluating TG01 in resected pancreatic cancer in combination
with standard of care chemotherapy (gemcitabine) reported mOS of 33.3 months in May 2019.
The mOS compares favorably to the ESPAC4 historical control trial of gemcitabine monotherapy,
which reported mOS from surgery of 27.6 months. These data were corroborated by broad and
lasting immune responses in vaccinated patients, and several examples of clearance of residual
mutant RAS cancer cells after surgery by ctDNA analysis. The Company has attained Orphan Drug
Designation for TG01 in pancreatic cancer in both the US and Europe.
Targovax is actively working to create shareholder value from the TG technology through cost
effective partnerships. Consistent with this approach, Targovax has entered into several
collaboration agreements. In January 2020, Targovax and IOVaxis Therapeutics entered into an
option agreement for an exclusive license to develop and commercialize the TG01 and TG02
vaccines in Greater China and Singapore. The intention is that IOVaxis will exercise the option to
license TG upon the first regulatory IND approval to start a clinical trial in China. For this right,
IOVaxis has paid Targovax an option fee of USD 250,000, and will pay an additional USD 3 million
upfront fee when the exclusive license option is exercised. The total development and commercial
milestones in the deal are worth up to USD 100 million, in addition to tiered royalties on sales up
to the mid-teens.
In 2020, Targovax entered into exploratory research collaborations to explore novel ONCOS-based
mutant KRAS vaccination concepts with Valo Therapeutics. This collaboration offers an innovative
approach to deal with the mutant KRAS target and provides an opportunity to merge the oncolytic
virus and KRAS experience and capabilities of Targovax.