NextCure Begins Phase 1 Trial Dosing First Patient with LNCB74 for Cancer Treatment

BELTSVILLE, Md., Jan. 10, 2025 – NextCure, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company listed on Nasdaq as NXTC, has commenced its Phase 1 clinical trial for LNCB74, a pioneering antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) designed to target B7-H4, an innovative approach aimed at treating various forms of cancer. This event marks a pivotal achievement for NextCure, showcasing its dedication to advancing its B7-H4 ADC program.

Udayan Guha, M.D., Ph.D., the Senior Vice President of Clinical & Translational Development at NextCure, expressed enthusiasm over this progress, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the safety and tolerability of LNCB74, alongside its preliminary efficacy in combating tumors. Guha conveyed optimism that this groundbreaking ADC could potentially revolutionize treatment options for patients with different cancer types.

The journey towards this significant milestone included clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in December 2024, when the agency approved NextCure's Investigational New Drug application for LNCB74. This regulatory green light allows NextCure to proceed with clinical evaluations, highlighting the company's robust preparation and commitment to innovation in cancer therapy.

NextCure’s development of LNCB74 is in collaboration with LigaChem Biosciences, Inc., under a strategic partnership aimed at co-developing this promising therapy. This collaboration underscores the industry's trend towards joint ventures to expedite the development of cutting-edge treatments.

NextCure is committed to addressing the needs of cancer patients who either do not respond to existing treatments or suffer disease progression despite current therapies. The company focuses on utilizing differentiated mechanisms of action, including antibody-drug conjugates, to develop its therapies. By leveraging its core competencies in understanding biological pathways, biomarkers, and cellular interactions within the tumor microenvironment, NextCure aims to design therapies that elicit a robust biological response.

The company’s strategic approach centers on harnessing the intricate interactions between cells, particularly in cancer contexts, to inform the development of therapies that can effectively interrupt disease processes and offer new hope to patients with limited options. This focus positions NextCure as a leader in the biopharmaceutical field, continually seeking new avenues to address unmet medical needs.

The initiation of the LNCB74 Phase 1 study is a testament to NextCure's ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of cancer treatment. By exploring new therapeutic targets such as B7-H4, the company demonstrates its commitment to pioneering research and innovation, setting the stage for potential breakthroughs in oncology care.

As the study progresses, NextCure remains focused on collecting valuable data that will inform subsequent phases of clinical testing. The company is poised to refine its understanding of LNCB74’s therapeutic potential, aiming to ultimately bring this novel treatment to patients in need.

With its strategic partnerships, regulatory milestones, and innovative research, NextCure is well-positioned to make substantial contributions to cancer treatment paradigms. The advancement of the LNCB74 program reflects NextCure’s dedication to transforming cancer care and improving patient outcomes through science and innovation.