MGNX - MacroGenics halts mid-stage head and neck cancer study after fatalities

• Oncology-focused biotech MacroGenics ( NASDAQ: MGNX ) has decided to close its Phase 2 study for an investigational treatment regimen after a review of safety data revealed seven fatalities.
• The study named CP-MGA271-06 was designed to evaluate monoclonal antibody enoblituzumab in combination with either the anti-PD1 agent retifanlimab or bispecific DART molecule tebotelimab as a first-line option for recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
• The internal safety review indicated seven deaths potentially linked to hemorrhagic events in both arms of the trial, with one incidence possibly related to the study treatment, the company said. The investigators have found that the remaining events were secondary to disease progression and/or unrelated to the study treatment.
• “Our top concern in conducting clinical trials is the safety of study participants,” Chief Executive Scott Koenig noted.

• Wall Street stands strongly behind the prospects of MacroGenics ( MGNX ) with 11 Buy ratings and only one Hold rating.

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