Shares of Can-Fite BioPharma Ltd. rallied after the biotechnology company announced positive Phase 2a findings for namodenoson in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. The stock rose 18% on the trading session following the disclosure.
Can-Fite described the trial as fully enrolled and said the preliminary data provide evidence of clinical activity in a population that had received extensive prior therapy. A key signal from the study was durable disease stabilization observed among patients assessed for response.
The company reported that stable disease was documented in more than 30% of evaluable patients. Several individuals experienced prolonged durations on therapy, including one patient who remained on treatment beyond 16 months. Can-Fite also stated that 35% of participants continue to receive the drug and are in follow-up at this time.
In addition to disease control signals, namodenoson displayed a favorable safety and tolerability profile in this trial, consistent with the company’s earlier reports.
Commenting on the results, Pnina Fishman, Can-Fite’s Chairperson and Chief Scientific Officer, said: "As we continue to analyse the data, we are encouraged by the emerging signal of durable disease stabilization observed in this study." She added: "Importantly, a meaningful proportion of patients remain on therapy for extended periods, supporting the continued clinical development of namodenoson in pancreatic cancer."
Can-Fite noted that full efficacy analyses are pending. These will include top-line results for progression-free survival and overall survival, which the company expects to report in the coming months. The firm intends to present those results at a clinical conference once available.
Can-Fite develops a portfolio of proprietary small molecule therapies aimed at treating cancer and inflammatory diseases. The Phase 2a update on namodenoson adds to the company’s clinical-stage programing and offers an early signal for further study in pancreatic cancer.
Context for investors and markets
- The stock reaction reflects investor attention to early clinical readouts in oncology programs.
- Final efficacy metrics to be released in the coming months will be key to assessing broader commercial and clinical potential.