Arcus Biosciences' Casdatifan Shows Promise Against Metastatic Kidney Cancer with Potential Over Merck's Welireg

Casdatifan, Arcus Biosciences' HIF-2a inhibitor, has demonstrated promising clinical activity against metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) in the ARC-20 study. The expansion cohort with a 100mg daily dose showed a 34% objective response rate and an impressive 81% disease control rate, highlighting its potential as a leading treatment option[1]. Casdatifan's results have prompted plans for a phase 3 trial, exploring combinations with Cabometyx and other treatments to enhance efficacy[2]. With manageable safety and no dose-limiting toxicities, casdatifan could potentially outperform Merck's Welireg, which had a 22.7% response rate in a similar setting[2].