Breakthrough MEK inhibitor shows 86% survival in pancreatic cancer trial
Immuneering (IMRX) has released promising results from a phase 2a trial of atebimetinib, a new MEK inhibitor, in pancreatic cancer. The study showed an 86% overall survival rate at nine months for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The company now plans to move forward with a large-scale phase 3 trial in mid-2026.
The phase 2a trial combined atebimetinib with modified gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel (mGnP) in PDAC patients. Early data revealed strong survival figures, with 86% of participants alive after nine months. A full update on 12-month survival will be presented on January 7, 2026.
Immuneering has outlined its next steps, including a phase 3 trial involving 510 patients. Enrolment is expected to begin in mid-2026, with final results due by mid-2028. The trial will test atebimetinib alongside standard chemotherapy in PDAC.
Beyond pancreatic cancer, the company is expanding atebimetinib’s use. A phase 2 trial in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is planned for the second half of 2026. This study will combine the drug with Regeneron’s cemiplimab.
Financially, Immuneering holds $227.6 million in cash and equivalents as of Q3 2025. The company’s market capitalisation stands at $434.6 million, with over 64.5 million shares outstanding.
The phase 3 trial will mark a key step in atebimetinib’s development, with the first patient set to begin treatment in mid-2026. If successful, the drug could become a new option for pancreatic cancer patients. Meanwhile, competition in the RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK pathway space, including from firms like Revolution Medicines, may shape the treatment landscape.
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