BOSTON - Sensei Biotherapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:SNSE), an immuno-oncology company, announced positive preliminary data from the dose escalation phase of its Phase 1/2 clinical trial for SNS-101, a human monoclonal antibody targeting VISTA, a protein involved in suppressing the immune system's ability to fight cancer.
The trial, which includes patients with advanced solid tumors resistant to PD-1 inhibitor therapies, has shown promising signs of efficacy, particularly in tumor types that typically do not respond to PD-1 treatments. The study assesses the drug both as a standalone therapy and in combination with Regeneron (NASDAQ:REGN)'s PD-1 inhibitor Libtayo® (cemiplimab).
As of April 30, 2024, SNS-101 has been administered once every three weeks to 34 patients, showing preliminary evidence of clinical activity in several tumor types. Notably, a patient with microsatellite stable (MSS) endometrial cancer treated with SNS-101 and cemiplimab achieved a confirmed partial response with a 59% decrease in tumor size and has remained on study for over 30 weeks. Another patient with MSS colorectal cancer saw a 27% tumor regression after 18 weeks.
The trial's dose escalation phase is designed to evaluate SNS-101's safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. To date, the drug has been well-tolerated, with no dose-limiting toxicities observed, and the majority of adverse events were mild.
Dr. Shiraj Sen, a principal investigator for the study, highlighted the importance of the trial for patients with limited treatment options, expressing optimism for the drug's continued evaluation.
The company plans to continue patient enrollment in the dose expansion phase of the study, with initial data expected by the end of 2024. The results will also be presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting on June 1, 2024.
Sensei Biotherapeutics will host an investor webcast on Monday, June 3, 2024, to discuss the trial data further.
InvestingPro Insights
Amid the positive clinical trial updates, Sensei Biotherapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:SNSE) faces significant financial scrutiny. According to recent data from InvestingPro, the company's market capitalization stands at a modest $36.62 million, reflecting the market's cautious stance on the company's value. The firm's financial health is a point of concern, with a notable cash burn rate and a lack of profitability over the last twelve months, as highlighted in two InvestingPro Tips. These factors are critical for potential investors to consider, especially given that analysts do not expect Sensei to be profitable this year.
However, it's not all cause for concern. The company's stock has shown remarkable resilience with a strong return over the last three months, boasting an 80.13% price total return, and an even more impressive six-month price total return of 107.29%. These figures suggest a growing investor confidence that may be tied to the promising results of their clinical trials and the potential of their drug candidates.
Investors interested in the detailed financial metrics and additional insights for Sensei Biotherapeutics can find a wealth of information on InvestingPro. There are currently 6 more InvestingPro Tips available, which can provide a deeper understanding of the company's financial position and market performance. To access these insights and tips, visit https://www.investing.com/pro/SNSE and remember to use coupon code PRONEWS24 to get an additional 10% off a yearly or biyearly Pro and Pro+ subscription.
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