1. NuCana presents positive findings on NUC-7738 at ESMO Congress. 2. Two partial responses and stable disease observed in melanoma patients. 3. No new safety signals reported for NUC-7738 in clinical trials. 4. Continued enrollment for future studies indicated potential regulatory pathway. 5. NUC-7738 aims to enhance treatment for resistant metastatic melanoma.
FAQ
Why Bullish?
Positive clinical trial results may increase investor confidence. Historical instances show similar data leading to stock price surges for biopharmaceutical companies.
How important is it?
The information showcased pivotal advancements in clinical trials, potentially positioning NUC-7738 as a key treatment option.
Why Short Term?
Immediate reactions from investors could occur following the data release. Rapid developments can influence stock prices quickly in the biotechnology field.
NuCana Reports Promising Data for NUC-7738 in PD-1-Resistant Melanoma
Date: December 10, 2025 | Source: GlobeNewswire | Company Symbol: NCNA
Overview of Latest Findings
NuCana plc (NASDAQ: NCNA), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, presented encouraging clinical data for NUC-7738 at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Immuno-Oncology Congress held in London from December 10-12, 2025. These results showcase the drug's effectiveness and safety in treating patients with PD-1 inhibitor-resistant metastatic melanoma, who had previously shown progressive disease.
Clinical Data Highlights
The data indicates strong clinical activity, featuring:
- Two partial responses (one confirmed)
- Seven stable disease cases, with ongoing treatment showing one stable disease converting to a complete metabolic response with no detectable active disease
These findings build upon initial data presented at the ESMO Congress 2024, reinforcing the drug's potential.
Expansion and Safety Profile
Currently, nine patients are enrolled in the Expansion Cohort, part of a planned total of up to 28 additional patients. Together with the twelve patients from the Dose Confirmation Cohort, the dataset will encompass up to **40 patients**. Notably, no new safety signals have emerged, and several patients continue to show disease control while remaining on therapy.
Statements from NuCana Leadership
Hugh S. Griffith, Founder and CEO of NuCana, stated, “We are very pleased to share the continued progress from this study. The clinical activity and favorable safety profile of NUC-7738 support its potential to offer meaningful benefit for patients with advanced melanoma who have exhausted current treatment options.” He further emphasized the findings as a motivating factor for continued enrollment and clinical advancement towards a potential registrational pathway.
Noteworthy Patient Stories
A participant from the study, who experienced a complete metabolic response, was highlighted in the UK Channel 4 documentary series, Cancer Detectives: Finding the Cures, showcasing the study’s lead investigator, Professor Sarah Blagden from the University of Oxford.
ESMO Congress 2025 Presentation Details
NuCana's presentation at the ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress included:
- Abstract Title: A Phase 2 expansion study of NUC-7738 in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with PD-1 inhibitor-resistant cutaneous melanoma (NuTide:701)
- Poster Number: 321TiP
- Presenting Author: Dr. Miranda J. Payne
- Date: December 10, 2025
All abstracts accepted for presentation can be accessed on the ESMO website.
About NuCana
NuCana is dedicated to improving cancer treatment outcomes by utilizing its ProTide technology. This technology aims to enhance the effectiveness of commonly prescribed chemotherapy agents, including nucleoside analogs. Currently, NuCana is advancing NUC-7738 and another drug candidate, NUC-3373, through various clinical studies. NUC-7738 uniquely targets cancer cell gene expression and the tumor microenvironment, while NUC-3373 is designed to be used in combination therapies for advanced solid tumors.
Forward-Looking Statements
This release may contain forward-looking statements regarding NuCana’s clinical studies, product candidates, and anticipated outcomes. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect the results. Investors are encouraged to consult the risk factors outlined in NuCana’s Annual Report filed with the SEC for more details.