JNJ-5322 shows promise in multiple myeloma Phase 1 trial

CHICAGO - Johnson & Johnson revealed initial results from a Phase 1 trial of its investigational trispecific antibody, JNJ-5322, for treating relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, with a reported overall response rate of 86.1% among patients receiving the recommended phase 2 dose. The study findings were presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting and will be highlighted at the European Hematology Association (EHA) Congress.

JNJ-5322 is designed to target three distinct proteins, aiming to improve treatment outcomes by addressing tumor heterogeneity and reducing resistance development. The trial involved 126 heavily pretreated patients, with a median follow-up of 8.2 months. Niels van de Donk, M.D., Ph.D., from VU University Medical Center, noted the encouraging response rates and the potential of JNJ-5322 as a treatment option, also pointing out the antibody’s tolerable safety profile.

The most common adverse event was cytokine release syndrome, experienced by 59% of patients, though no cases were above Grade 3. Infections of Grade 3 or higher occurred in 28% of patients, and there were four treatment-emergent patient deaths, one of which was drug-related.

This news comes as multiple myeloma remains an incurable blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow, with more than 35,000 new cases expected in the U.S. in 2024. Johnson & Johnson aims to advance oncology outcomes with its pipeline of next-generation immunotherapies, anticipating further studies on JNJ-5322’s efficacy and safety.

While these early results are promising, they are part of ongoing research, and the company cautions that these forward-looking statements should not be relied upon due to the inherent uncertainties of clinical trials and regulatory approvals. This information is based on a press release statement. For investors seeking deeper insights, InvestingPro indicates that Johnson & Johnson is currently trading below its Fair Value, with 8 additional exclusive ProTips and a detailed Pro Research Report available for subscribers looking to make informed investment decisions.

In other recent news, Johnson & Johnson reported promising results from its Phase 3 ICONIC-TOTAL study on icotrokinra, an investigational oral peptide for treating plaque psoriasis. The study found that 57% of participants achieved clear or almost clear skin at Week 16, with significant improvements noted in patients with scalp and genital psoriasis. Additionally, the company released data from its Phase 3 QUASAR study, showing that 72% of patients with ulcerative colitis treated with TREMFYA® achieved clinical remission at Week 92. Furthermore, the FDA has approved Johnson & Johnson’s IMAAVY™ for the treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis, based on results from the Vivacity-MG3 study that demonstrated long-lasting disease control. In another development, Leerink Partners downgraded Johnson & Johnson’s stock rating from Outperform to Market Perform due to concerns about potential price controls on Darzalex Faspro. The firm adjusted its price target for the company to $153, reflecting a cautious outlook on future earnings growth. These recent developments highlight Johnson & Johnson’s ongoing efforts in advancing its pharmaceutical portfolio and addressing various medical conditions.

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