BioNTech has presented Phase II data showing up to 95% objective response rate (ORR) for pumitamig, a PD-L1/VEGF bispecific antibody (BsAb), in first-line extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC) at the World Conference on Lung Cancer in Spain. The open-label global trial evaluated two dosing regimens combined with chemotherapy in 43 patients, with 86.8% unconfirmed ORR and 100% disease control rate (DCR) observed in 38 evaluable cases. BioNTech acquired global rights to the drug through a USD 9.5 billion purchase of China-based Biotheus in 2024 after initially licensing it for USD 1.055 billion.

Safety data showed 81.4% treatment-related adverse events, including grade 3+ hypertension and thrombocytopaenia in six patients. No treatment-related deaths occurred. The BsAb's dual mechanism combines PD-L1 blockade with VEGF neutralisation to remodel the tumour microenvironment. Bristol-Myers Squibb recently secured global rights through a USD 11.1 billion deal with BioNTech in June 2025, highlighting the therapy's potential across multiple cancer types.

According to PharmCube's NextBiopharm® database, there are 65 active programs for drugs targeting both the PD1/PDL and VEGF/VEGFR pathways, mostly polyspecific antibodies. Click here to request a free trial for NextBiopharm®.