Domvanalimab & Zimberelimab in Advanced Gastric Cancer Trial
New Combination Therapy Shows promise in Advanced Gastrointestinal Cancers
Published online October 18, 2025, results from an international phase 2 clinical trial presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress 2025 indicate a promising new treatment approach for patients facing advanced cancers of the stomach, esophagus, and gastroesophageal junction. The combination therapy utilizes the immune checkpoint inhibitors domvanalimab and zimberelimab alongside the established chemotherapy regimen FOLFOX (oxaliplatin, leucovorin, and fluorouracil).
The trial focused on patients with advanced gastric cancer, gastroesophageal junction cancer, or esophageal adenocarcinoma – cancers frequently enough diagnosed at later stages with limited treatment options. Researchers evaluated the effectiveness of adding domvanalimab (an Fc-silent anti-TIGIT antibody) and zimberelimab (an anti-PD-1 antibody) to the standard FOLFOX chemotherapy. Initial findings demonstrate encouraging objective response rates and survival outcomes
, suggesting a potential improvement in patient prognosis.
The study’s design was a single-arm phase 2 trial,meaning all participants received the combination therapy. While these initial results are positive, researchers emphasize the need for further validation.A larger, randomized phase 3 trial is now planned to confirm these findings and assess the treatment’s efficacy compared to current standard-of-care options. This next phase will be crucial in determining whether this combination therapy can become a new standard for treating these challenging cancers.
The findings represent a significant step forward in the ongoing effort to improve treatment options for patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancers. the combination of immunotherapy with chemotherapy offers a perhaps synergistic approach, harnessing the power of the immune system alongside traditional cancer treatments.Further results from the phase 3 trial, expected in the coming years, will be closely watched by the medical community.