BMS Collaborates with Advaxis and Array

On May 30, 2017 Bristol Myers-Squibb (BMS) announced two separate collaborations with its PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor, Opdivo (nivolumab). The separate deals involve Array BioPharma and Advaxis, the company announced in separate statements.

BMS entered into a clinical research collaboration to investigate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of Array Biopharma’s investigational MEK inhibitor, binimetinib, in combination with Bristol-Myers Squibb’s Opdivo and Opdivo + Yervoy (ipilimumab) regimen as a potential treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer in patients with microsatellite stable tumors. The Phase 1/2 study is expected to establish recommended dose regimens for further study and explore the preliminary anti-tumor activity of combining binimetinib with Opdivo, as well as binimetinib in combination with the Opdivo + Yervoy regimen. Results from this first study, which is anticipated to begin in the second half of 2017, will be used to determine approaches to further clinical development of these combinations.

BMS and Advaxis entered a clinical development collaboration to evaluate ADXS-DUAL, an investigational immunotherapy targeting HPV-associated cancers, and Opdivo as a potential combination treatment option for women with metastatic cervical cancer. Expected to start by the end of 2017, the study will evaluate this combination regimen in women with persistent, recurrent or metastatic (squamous or non-squamous cell) carcinoma of the cervix who have failed at least one prior line of systemic chemotherapy. Under the terms of the agreement, each party will bear its own internal costs and provide its immunotherapy agents. Advaxis will sponsor the study and pay third-party costs.