PHILADELPHIA, PA — Context Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq: CNTX) announced a significant addition to its drug pipeline with the acquisition of CT-95 from Link Immunotherapeutics, Inc. The asset is a mesothelin (MSLN) x CD3 T cell-engaging (TCE) bispecific antibody. This type of antibody has shown potential to be a first-in-class cancer treatment. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has already cleared CT-95 for Investigational New Drug (IND) status, setting the stage for Phase 1 clinical trials to begin in early 2025.
“We are thrilled to add CT-95, formerly known as LNK101, to our pipeline,” said Martin Lehr, CEO of Context Therapeutics. “The acquisition aligns perfectly with our goal of developing TCE assets to treat solid tumors. MSLN is highly prevalent in cancers such as ovarian, lung, and pancreatic.”
Bispecific antibodies like CT-95 are designed to engage two different targets simultaneously. This particular antibody targets MSLN on cancer cells and CD3 on T cells. By bringing these two components together, CT-95 aims to direct the body’s immune system to attack the cancer cells more effectively. Preclinical studies have shown promising results, suggesting that CT-95 could be both a first-in-class and best-in-class treatment.
CT-95’s focus on MSLN is particularly relevant because this protein is overexpressed in several types of aggressive cancers. These include ovarian, lung, and pancreatic cancers, which often have limited treatment options and poor prognoses. Therefore, a successful therapy targeting MSLN could address a significant unmet medical need.
“CT-95 is an IND-cleared asset that we plan to rapidly progress into clinical trials,” Mr. Lehr added. “We intend to fund the acquisition and its advancement through the dose escalation portion of a Phase 1 clinical trial with Context’s existing cash.”
The forthcoming Phase 1 trials will aim to establish the appropriate dosage and evaluate the safety of CT-95. Should these trials succeed, the treatment could move quickly into later stages of clinical testing, potentially offering new hope for patients battling hard-to-treat cancers.
This acquisition not only strengthens Context Therapeutics’ pipeline but also highlights the company’s commitment to advancing innovative cancer treatments. As the biotech industry continues to evolve, pioneering therapies like CT-95 could redefine how we approach cancer treatment, making this a development worth watching closely.
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