Latest news with #agenT-797
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Biotech breakthrough? INKT stock skyrockets 530% after cell therapy cures testicular cancer
MiNK Therapeutics (NASDAQ: INKT) saw its stock price soar by over 530% today—hitting a peak of $65.55 —after the company revealed a potential breakthrough in cancer treatment. What triggered INKT's insane stock rally? MiNK announced that one patient with advanced, treatment-resistant testicular cancer experienced a complete and durable remission after receiving just a single infusion of its experimental off-the-shelf iNKT cell therapy, agenT‑797, alongside nivolumab (an immune checkpoint inhibitor). Even more impressive? That patient has remained completely disease-free for more than two years, according to data just published in the journal Oncogene by Nature . How did the treatment work—and why is it such a big deal? No chemo or radiation was needed—just a single dose of engineered iNKT cells, which are a rare type of immune cell known for attacking both tumors and viruses. The therapy was well-tolerated with no signs of graft-versus-host disease or cytokine storm , common side effects in other cell therapies. These infused donor cells persisted in the patient's body for six months , continuing to fight the cancer. Why is Wall Street going wild? This isn't just another biotech announcement—this is a first-of-its-kind human result. Investors are reacting to the possibility that agenT-797 could be a scalable, off-the-shelf alternative to expensive and complicated CAR-T therapies. And because the treatment worked in a solid tumor (traditionally harder to treat with cell therapies), the implications go far beyond just testicular cancer. How did AgenT-797 help a testicular cancer patient become disease-free? The standout case that grabbed attention involved a testicular cancer patient who had exhausted all available treatments, including both standard and experimental options. After receiving AgenT-797, the patient achieved complete remission, with no signs of the disease returning even after 24 months. Live Events Dr. Benjamin Garmezy, Assistant Director of Genitourinary Research at Sarah Cannon Research Institute, described the result as a breakthrough. "We observed a remarkable response in a patient who had exhausted standard and experimental treatments," Garmezy said, as quoted in Oncogene . He added that the case highlights the "powerful potential of iNKT cells" in tackling aggressive cancers where traditional therapies fall short. What makes MiNK's iNKT platform different from other cancer treatments? MiNK's cell therapy, AgenT-797, is not like the typical personalized cell treatments that need to be customized for each patient. It's an allogeneic, or off-the-shelf product—ready for use without waiting for a patient's cells to be engineered. This iNKT cell platform targets solid tumors in a way that activates both innate and adaptive immunity, making it potentially effective against cancers that have been resistant to traditional therapies and even immunotherapy. The company believes this case sets a precedent that could expand the use of iNKT-based therapies in treating other solid tumors beyond testicular cancer. Is AgenT-797 showing results in other types of cancer too? Yes. Another case report, also published in Oncogene , involved a metastatic gastric cancer patient. After a single infusion of AgenT-797 combined with Opdivo—a widely used cancer immunotherapy from Bristol-Myers Squibb—the patient experienced a 42% tumor reduction and over nine months of progression-free survival. These results support the ongoing Phase II trial of AgenT-797 in second-line gastric cancer, which is actively enrolling participants. The promising early outcomes are likely to boost interest and investment in this trial as it moves forward. What about other cancers? MiNK also released encouraging data from an ongoing Phase 2 gastric cancer trial, where agenT-797 showed: Stronger immune activation, and Improved patient survival rates, even in very aggressive tumor types. Is this too good to be true? As always in biotech, one patient does not make a cure. Despite the euphoria, there are a few things to keep in mind: Pros Cons Potentially revolutionary treatment for solid tumors Still very early-stage: just one case of remission No major side effects like GvHD or cytokine storm Limited data; needs larger clinical trials Off-the-shelf therapy = easier to scale than CAR-T MiNK is a small-cap company with limited cash runway What does MiNK Therapeutics' financial health look like right now? As of March 31, 2025, MiNK reported having $3.2 million in cash on hand. While that's a relatively modest amount for a biotech company in active clinical development, the positive clinical results and surging stock price may open new doors for funding or partnerships in the near future. In the past year, INKT stock has moved in a range between $4.56 and $13.79. But today's pre-market rally to $21 marks a dramatic leap, signaling growing investor confidence in the company's science and potential market opportunity. Why does this matter for the future of cancer immunotherapy? The testicular cancer case treated with AgenT-797 offers real-world proof that iNKT cell therapies might have the power to treat cancers that don't respond to anything else. This could change how certain solid tumors are treated, especially in patients with few remaining options. Testicular cancer, though rare—it affects roughly 1 in 250 males in their lifetime according to the American Cancer Society—can become especially difficult to treat when it spreads or resists standard therapies. If MiNK's approach proves consistently effective, it may redefine what's possible in advanced cancer care. MiNK Therapeutics' iNKT-based AgenT-797 therapy is gaining momentum after helping a testicular cancer patient achieve long-term remission, with stock soaring as investors take notice. With ongoing trials in gastric cancer and solid tumors, and early signs of effectiveness, MiNK is now at the center of conversations around the future of off-the-shelf cell therapies in oncology. What's next for MiNK and agenT-797? MiNK is now focused on: Expanding clinical trials for solid tumors and hematologic cancers Securing more funding and possibly Big Pharma partnerships Advancing agenT-797 toward FDA approval MiNK also recently received NIAID funding to study their iNKT therapy in graft-versus-host disease, opening more doors for future applications. FAQs: Q1. What is MiNK Therapeutics' AgenT-797 used for? AgenT-797 is used to treat advanced cancers like testicular and gastric tumors using iNKT cell therapy. Q2. Why did MiNK Therapeutics stock surge 500%? The stock jumped after a testicular cancer patient fully recovered using MiNK's cell therapy, AgenT-797.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
MiNK Therapeutics Announces Publication of Complete Remission Following Allogeneic iNKT Cell Therapy in Metastatic Testicular Cancer
New report adds to growing evidence of iNKT cell therapy's potential in solid tumors NEW YORK, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MiNK Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: INKT), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering allogeneic, off-the-shelf invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapies, today announced the publication of another landmark case in Nature's Oncogene describing a complete and durable remission in a patient with metastatic, treatment-refractory testicular cancer, following treatment with agenT-797, MiNK's allogeneic iNKT cell therapy. Complete remission after failure on platinum-based chemotherapy, autologous stem cell transplant, and multiple ICIs (anti–PD-1, anti–CTLA-4, and anti–TIGIT) The publication, titled 'Salvage therapy with allogeneic invariant natural killer T cells in a heavily pre-treated germ cell tumor,' presents a patient case from MiNK's clinical trial (NCT05108623). The patient had progressed after multiple lines of therapy—including platinum-based chemotherapy, autologous stem cell transplant, and multiple immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti–PD-1, anti–CTLA-4, and anti–TIGIT)—and received a single infusion of agenT-797 alongside nivolumab. The patient achieved a complete clinical, radiologic, and biochemical remission, with no evidence of disease over two years later. Donor iNKT cells were detectable up to six months post-infusion, and treatment was well-tolerated with no cytokine release syndrome (CRS) or graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). 'This case exemplifies the powerful potential of iNKT cells in treating even the most challenging cancers,' said Dr. Benjamin Garmezy, Assistant Director of Genitourinary Research for Sarah Cannon Research Institute at SCRI Oncology Partners. 'We observed a remarkable response in a patient who had exhausted standard and experimental treatments, offering compelling evidence to further pursue clinical studies of iNKT cell therapies in solid tumors.' Durable Responses & Immune Activation in Solid Tumors with Allo-iNKT Therapy These findings are part of a growing body of clinical evidence supporting the potential of agenT-797 in solid tumors. At the 2025 inaugural AACR Immuno-Oncology meeting, MiNK presented data from its Phase 2 trial in 2L gastric cancer, demonstrating immune activation, increased tumor infiltration, and early signals of tumor control in patients previously refractory to checkpoint inhibitors. Notably, extended survival beyond 12 months was observed in several patients—an outcome rarely seen in this setting. These clinical observations were further reinforced in a separate peer-reviewed case report published in Oncogene, which described a patient with metastatic gastric cancer who achieved a 42% tumor reduction and more than nine months of progression-free survival following a single infusion of agenT-797 in combination with nivolumab. Together, these data highlight the potential of agenT-797 to reshape the tumor microenvironment and deliver durable clinical activity, even in heavily pretreated, immunotherapy-resistant cancers. The ongoing Phase 2 trial in gastric cancer (NCT06251973) is actively enrolling, with additional readouts expected in upcoming months. You can access the full publication here. About MiNK Therapeutics MiNK Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company advancing a new class of allogeneic invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapies and precision-targeted immune technologies. MiNK's proprietary platform is designed to restore immune balance and drive cytotoxic responses across cancer, immune-mediated diseases, and pulmonary immune failure. The company's lead candidate, agenT-797, is an off-the-shelf, cryopreserved iNKT cell therapy currently in clinical development for graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), solid tumors, and severe pulmonary inflammation. MiNK is also advancing a pipeline of T cell receptor (TCR)-based therapies and neoantigen discovery tools that enable highly specific immune targeting across tumor and tissue types. With a scalable manufacturing process and a differentiated mechanism that bridges innate and adaptive immunity, MiNK is committed to delivering accessible, durable, and broadly applicable immune reconstitution therapies. For more information, visit or follow us on X @MiNK_iNKT. Information important to investors is routinely posted to our website and social media channels. About AgenT-797 AgenT-797 is an allogeneic invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapy that harnesses the dual power of innate and adaptive immunity. iNKTs function as 'master regulators,' combining the cytotoxic capabilities of NK cells with T-cell–like antigen recognition and memory. This unique biology enables a robust, pathogen-agnostic immune response that can be directed against hard-to-treat tumors. Manufactured by MiNK Therapeutics in Lexington, MA, agenT-797 is a scalable, off-the-shelf product designed to provide accessible, transformative treatment options. In clinical trials, agenT-797 can bolster peripheral memory T-cell activation, enhance tumor infiltration, and potentially improve outcomes for patients with solid cancers (Cytryn et al., AACR IO 2024; Oncogene, 2024), as well as reduce inflammation in critically ill patients with severe respiratory pathology (Nature Communications, 2024). Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the federal securities laws, including statements regarding the therapeutic potential, anticipated benefit, plans and timelines of iNKT cells. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the factors described under the Risk Factors section of the most recent Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and the S-1 Registration Statement filed with the SEC. MiNK cautions investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this release. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and MiNK and Agenus with no obligation to update or revise the statements, other than to the extent required by law. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. CONTACT: Investor Contact 917-362-1370 investor@ Media Contact 781-674-4428 communications@
Yahoo
24-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
MiNK Therapeutics Presents First-in-Kind Allo-iNKTs Combination Data in 2L Gastric Cancer at AACR IO Annual Meeting
Addition of AgenT-797 with Checkpoint Inhibitors, BOT/BAL, and Chemotherapy Demonstrates Robust Immune Activation, Offering Potential to Overcome Refractory Gastric Cancers NEW YORK, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MiNK Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: INKT), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering the development of allogeneic, off-the-shelf invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapies, today presented new translational data from its ongoing Phase 2 study of allo-iNKTs, agenT-797, at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) IO Annual Meeting in Los Angeles, California. The study evaluates agenT-797 in combination with botensilimab and balstilimab (BOT/BAL), in patients with refractory (2L+) gastroesophageal cancer (NCT06251973). 'We are encouraged by these latest data that demonstrate a powerful synergy between MiNK's allo-iNKT cells, checkpoint inhibitors, and approved chemotherapy, sparking robust immune reactivation and clinical activity in otherwise unresponsive tumors,' said Dr. Jennifer Buell, President and Chief Executive Officer at MiNK. 'These findings underscore our unique position in the cell therapy space, highlighting iNKT cells' potential to transform both access and efficacy for patients. By intensifying immunologic activity, reinvigorating memory T cells, and driving anti-tumor immune cells into the tumor microenvironment, this combination has the potential to deliver durable clinical benefits. We are excited to further investigate the clinical impact of this promising combination.' Highlights: Combinations Optimize Anti-tumor Immunity Early induction with MiNK's allogeneic iNKT product, agenT-797, drove broad immune activation—a hallmark of potential durable responses. Investigators report significant increase in interferon-gamma (IFNγ) levels, along with enhanced tumor infiltration by T cells and antigen-presenting cells (APCs), signaling robust systemic immune engagement. These biomarkers typically correlate with improved clinical outcomes and a sustained anti-tumor immune response, reinforcing the potential of this combination in solid cancers. Treatment Sequencing Matters The most pronounced immune expansion and strong peripheral memory T-cell activation were seen when agenT-797 was given concurrently with checkpoint inhibitors and before standard chemotherapy. This underscores the critical importance of treatment sequencing, positioning early allo-iNKT induction as a key driver of therapeutic benefit. Strategic Advantages Allogeneic, Off-the-Shelf Platform: MiNK's scalable manufacturing process generates billions of donor-derived iNKT cells in a single run, yielding thousands of doses for rapid global distribution. This approach reduces logistical hurdles and lowers costs, enabling greater patient access worldwide. Differentiated Pipeline: MiNK's iNKT platform supports expansion into additional hard-to-treat cancers, creating significant opportunities for pipeline breadth, partnerships, and long-term growth. Presentation Details: Abstract Title: Biomarker analysis from Phase 2 study of AgenT-797 (invariant natural killer T-cells), botensilimab (a Fc-enhanced CTLA-4 Inhibitor) with balstilimab (anti-PD-1) in PD-1 refractory gastroesophageal cancer (GEC) Presenting Author: Dr. Samuel Cytryn, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York Oral Session: Proffered Papers, Session 2; 1:39-1:45 p.m. PST Poster Session: Poster Session, A; 1:45-4:45 p.m. PST Date: Monday, February 24th The presentation will be available on the publications page of the MiNK website at following the start of the conference session. About MiNK Therapeutics MiNK Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering the discovery, development, and commercialization of allogeneic invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapies to treat cancer and other immune-mediated diseases. MiNK is advancing a pipeline of both native and next generation engineered iNKT programs, with a platform designed to facilitate scalable and reproducible manufacturing for off-the-shelf delivery. The company is headquartered in New York, NY. For more information, visit or @MiNK_iNKT. Information that may be important to investors will be routinely posted on our website and social media channels. About AgenT-797 AgenT-797 is an allogeneic invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapy that harnesses the dual power of innate and adaptive immunity. iNKTs function as 'master regulators,' combining the cytotoxic capabilities of NK cells with T-cell–like antigen recognition and memory. This unique biology enables a robust, pathogen-agnostic immune response that can be directed against hard-to-treat tumors. Manufactured by MiNK Therapeutics in Lexington, MA, agenT-797 is a scalable, off-the-shelf product designed to provide accessible, transformative treatment options. In clinical trials, agenT-797 can bolster peripheral memory T-cell activation, enhance tumor infiltration, and potentially improve outcomes for patients with solid cancers (Cytryn et al. AACR IO 2024, Oncogene. 2024) and to combat inflammation in critically ill patients with severe respiratory pathology (Nature Communications. 2024). About Botensilimab (BOT) and Balstilimab (BAL) Botensilimab (BOT) is a human Fc enhanced CTLA-4 blocking antibody designed to boost both innate and adaptive anti-tumor immune responses. Its novel design leverages mechanisms of action to extend immunotherapy benefits to 'cold' tumors which generally respond poorly to standard of care or are refractory to conventional PD-1/CTLA-4 therapies and investigational therapies. Balstilimab is a novel, fully human monoclonal immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) designed to block PD-1 (programmed cell death protein 1) from interacting with its ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2. Botensilimab augments immune responses across a wide range of tumor types by priming and activating T cells, downregulating intratumoral regulatory T cells, activating myeloid cells and inducing long-term memory responses. Both molecules are manufactured by Agenus. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the federal securities laws, including statements regarding the therapeutic potential, anticipated benefit, plans and timelines of iNKT cells, as well as the collaboration between MiNK and Agenus. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the factors described under the Risk Factors section of the most recent Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and the S-1 Registration Statement filed with the SEC. MiNK cautions investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this release. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and MiNK and Agenus with no obligation to update or revise the statements, other than to the extent required by law. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Investor Contact 917-362-1370 investor@ Media Contact 781-674-4428 communications@
