IGM Biosciences, Inc. announced an update on its clinical development program for IGM-8444, a novel multivalent death receptor 5 (DR5) agonist, in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Strong activation of the DR5 pathway requires multiple receptors to be cross-linked simultaneously by an antibody or other binding agent to create an apoptotic death signal to the cell. Unlike traditional IgG antibodies, IGM-8444 has 10 binding units, enabling it to cross-link multiple DR5 receptors at the same time, sending a stronger signal to cause cancer cell death.

The Company is currently conducting a multicenter, open-label clinical trial to determine the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of IGM-8444 as a single agent and in combination in subjects with relapsed and/or refractory solid or hematologic cancers.