MCLA-145 + pembrolizumab

MCLA-145 + pembrolizumab is an investigational combination therapy for advanced and metastatic solid tumors. MCLA-145 is a bispecific human monoclonal antibody developed to simultaneously target CD137 (4-1BB) and PD-L1. This dual activity is designed to both block the inhibitory PD-1/PD-L1 pathway and locally activate T cells via CD137 costimulation, thereby enhancing anti-tumor immunity. Pembrolizumab is a monoclonal antibody targeting PD-1, an immune checkpoint, and is approved for multiple cancer types. The combination aims to synergistically boost T cell responses by unlocking and co-stimulating tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. The combination has shown clinical activity with a manageable safety profile in phase 1 clinical studies in patients with advanced solid tumors, including patients pretreated with immunotherapies. Merus is the developer of MCLA-145, while pembrolizumab is developed and manufactured by Merck. The recommended dose for MCLA-145 in the combination is 40 mg every 3 weeks, and pembrolizumab is administered at standard dosing[1][2][3][4][5].