Updated results from the Phase 1 REO 022 trial show that pelareorep (Reolysin), an oncolytic virus, combined with bevacizumab and FOLFIRI, may significantly improve outcomes in KRAS-mutant metastatic colorectal cancer. Patients receiving the combination had a response rate of 33% and a median duration of response of 19.5 months, far better than typical results with standard therapy.
Survival outcomes were also encouraging. Median progression-free survival reached 16.6 months, and overall survival was 27 months, compared with about 5.7 months and 11 months, respectively, with standard treatment alone. Researchers believe pelareorep enhances the immune system by increasing KRAS-specific T cells.
The therapy received Fast Track designation from the FDA, and Oncolytics Biotech is exploring accelerated approval. A Phase 2 trial is now underway to confirm these results.