ImmunityBio Launches Phase 2 CAR-NK Trial in Indolent B-cell Lymphoma
ImmunityBio launched its ResQ215B Phase 2 clinical trial exploring a chemotherapy-free, lymphodepletion-free off-the-shelf CD19 CAR-NK cell therapy combined with nogapendekin alfa inbakicept and rituximab in indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients. The study aims to evaluate efficacy and safety in a patient population with limited treatment options.
1. Phase 2 ResQ215B Study Launch
ImmunityBio initiated the ResQ215B trial to test its off-the-shelf CD19 CAR-NK cell therapy combined with nogapendekin alfa inbakicept (ANKTIVA) and rituximab in indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The Phase 2 design omits chemotherapy and lymphodepletion, aiming to reduce toxicity and simplify administration.
2. Combination Regimen and Mechanism
The regimen leverages ANKTIVA to enhance NK cell persistence and anti-tumor activity while rituximab provides established CD20 targeting. This dual approach seeks to improve response rates and durability without standard preconditioning regimens.
3. Clinical Implications and Patient Need
Indolent B-cell NHL patients often face limited options after relapse, with current therapies offering modest responses and significant side effects. Positive trial outcomes could position ResQ215B as a novel, more tolerable alternative in later treatment lines.