Dr. Jonasch on the Future of Belzutifan in Clear Cell RCC

Eric Jonasch, MD, professor, Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discusses the future of belzutifan (Welireg) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Positive data from the phase 1 LITESPARK-001 trial (NCT02974738) led to the randomized phase 3 LIGHTSPARK-005 trial (NCT05239728), which has already completed accrual, Jonasch says. LIGHTSPARK-005 is investigating belzutifan plus pembrolizumab (Keytruda) vs pembrolizumab plus placebo in patients with clear cell RCC post nephrectomy.

There are multiple studies examining belzutifan in combination with either immunotherapy or TKIs, so there are various routes being explored to find a place for it in the treatment paradigm for RCC, Jonasch explains. However, clinicians still need to determine exactly the best way is to utilize it, whether as a single agent or part of a combination, though both options are realistic possibilities, Jonasch concludes.