Health and Healthcare

Why Mirati Therapeutics Is Sinking

Ridofranz / iStock

Mirati Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: MRTX) shares dropped on Monday after the company announced updated positive clinical data from its midstage study in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The data were presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) 2018 Congress in Germany.

Specifically, the firm announced updated data from its ongoing Phase 2 clinical trial of sitravatinib in combination with Opdivo (nivolumab) in NSCLC patients with documented progression on prior immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

A few of the highlights from the study:

  • 45/56 of evaluable patients demonstrated tumor reductions.
  • 18/56 of evaluable patients demonstrated tumor reductions of greater than 30%.
  • 16/56 of evaluable patients achieved a Partial Response (PR) or Complete Response (CR).
  • 26/56 evaluable patients remained on treatment at the time of data cut-off including 8 responding patients.

Based on guidance received from the FDA, Mirati plans to initiate a Phase 3 randomized clinical trial in second-line patients comparing the combination of sitravatinib plus a checkpoint inhibitor to docetaxel in patients whose tumors have progressed on prior checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

Ticiana Leal, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine, Thoracic Oncology Program Leader at the University of Wisconsin, commented:

To date, the combination of sitravatinib and nivolumab has demonstrated a significant number of durable responses in patients with advanced NSCLC who experienced disease progression following prior checkpoint inhibitor therapy, which is one of the most challenging clinical scenarios that we currently face for this patient population. The results of the study are encouraging as it continues to show a clinical benefit for these patients and has a favorable safety profile.

Shares of Mirati were last seen down nearly 20% at $32.06, with a consensus analyst price target of $57.89 and a 52-week trading range of $12.26 to $65.35.

Essential Tips for Investing: Sponsored

A financial advisor can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of investment properties. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Investing in real estate can diversify your portfolio. But expanding your horizons may add additional costs. If you’re an investor looking to minimize expenses, consider checking out online brokerages. They often offer low investment fees, helping you maximize your profit.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.