Promising New Treatment for Relapsed Small Cell Lung Cancer

In a groundbreaking development presented at the 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer, ABBV-706, an innovative antibody-drug conjugate, has shown remarkable efficacy and a tolerable safety profile for patients battling relapsed or refractory small cell lung cancer (SCLC). This first-in-human phase 1 trial sheds light on a potential lifeline for those who have run out of treatment options.

Stellar Response Rates Across Diverse Patient Groups

The study encompassed 80 patients and revealed a stunning confirmed overall response rate (cORR) of 58%. Notably, even among patients who had endured two or more prior therapies, response rates held strong: 77% for those with two previous treatments and 46% for those with three or more. This treatment also proved beneficial for patients with brain metastases, demonstrating cORRs of 57% and 69% for those affected and not affected by metastases respectively.

Dosage Insights Reveal Effective Strategies

Two dosage levels were examined: 1.8 mg/kg and 2.5 mg/kg. At the 1.8 mg/kg level, the cORR was 56%, while the 2.5 mg/kg level yielded a 59% response rate. Among patients who had a chemotherapy-free interval of less than 30 days, corresponding cORRs were 46% for those at 1.8 mg/kg and 63% for those at the higher dosage. Such data underscore the adaptability of ABBV-706 across varying patient histories.

Expert Endorsement on Safety and Efficacy

Dr. Lauren A. Byers from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center highlighted that ABBV-706 demonstrates a manageable safety profile paired with promising efficacy, particularly in heavily pretreated patients. "Most patients are experiencing durable clinical benefits, even those with platinum-resistant disease," she said, reinforcing the drug's potential impact.

Clinical Trial Insights: A Closer Look at Participants

The trial featured participants aged 65 on average, with 80% exhibiting an ECOG performance status of 1 and 35% having brain metastases. Many patients had previously received multiple lines of treatment, including anti-PD-(L)1 therapy, showcasing the severity of their conditions.

A Rapid Response to Treatment