Molecular Partners advanced its lead DLL3-targeting Radio-DARPin therapy, MP0712, to the second therapeutic dose level in a Phase 1/2a study after the first cohort completed its safety observation period without dose-limiting events.
MP0712 is being co-developed with Orano Med for small cell lung cancer and other neuroendocrine cancers. The candidate targets DLL3 and carries a lead-212 alpha-emitting payload designed to deliver radiation directly to tumor-associated cells.
The first cohort, which received 75 MBq per dose, is fully recruited. Molecular Partners said patients have received as many as four doses to date, with all adverse events reported so far described as mild to moderate, transient and resolved in time for subsequent regular dosing.
Following review of the safety data, the Dose Escalation Review Committee recommended moving to cohort two at 105 MBq per dose. Cohort two is now open and recruiting. Five study sites are active, with nine expected to be open during 2026, and four dose levels are planned in the Phase 1 portion.
The company expects initial clinical data from MP0712 during 2026, followed by a broader safety and efficacy dataset in 2027. Molecular Partners is also expanding its radiotherapy pipeline, including MSLN-targeting MP0726 and a newly selected CD70 program targeting kidney cancer and other indications.
Molecular Partners ended June with CHF67.9 million, approximately $84 million, of cash and cash equivalents and expects that balance to fund operations into late 2027. First-half net loss narrowed to CHF26.7 million from CHF37.2 million.
KEY QUOTES:
“Opening of cohort 2 in the Phase 1 study marks an important milestone for the MP0712 program. With any investigational drug, safety is paramount.”
Philippe Legenne, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Molecular Partners
