The combination of darlifarnib with cabozantinib may overcome treatment resistance in advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma.
The study tested a “re-challenge” approach, where darlifarnib helps tumors respond again to cabozantinib, even in patients who had previously progressed on the same drug. This suggests a new way to extend the usefulness of existing therapies.
In a heavily pretreated group of 16 patients, the combination achieved a 44% response rate and a 94% disease control rate. About 75% of patients experienced tumor shrinkage, and some remained on treatment for up to 56 weeks.
The regimen was generally well tolerated, with manageable side effects despite combining two potent drugs. Researchers are now expanding the trial globally to determine the optimal dose and confirm these encouraging results.