Ongoing Research on HER3-DXd in NSCLC

This is a synopsis of an Insights series featuring Ticiana Leal, MD, of Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, and Sandip P. Patel, MD, of UC San Diego Health Moores Cancer Center.

Associate Professor and Director of the Thoracic Medical Oncology Program at the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University Ticiana Leal, MD and Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of California, San Diego Sandip P. Patel, MD discussed ongoing trials evaluating the anti-HER3 antibody-drug conjugate patritumab deruxtecan in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutated non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

The phase 2 HERTHENA-Lung02 study is comparing patritumab deruxtecan to chemotherapy in the second-line setting after osimertinib, while another trial is assessing the combination of patritumab deruxtecan plus osimertinib. Dr. Patel explained maintaining central nervous system and clonal control from osimertinib while targeting apparent HER3-mediated resistance allows a biologically rational dual approach. Findings may support sequencing across settings, starting with osimertinib then adding patritumab deruxtecan at progression.

Dr. Leal emphasized these trials demonstrate progress but comprehensive biomarker testing remains imperative. Up to 20% of NSCLC patients still initiate therapy without testing. Efforts must continue to educate on guideline-recommended testing for all advanced NSCLC patients at diagnosis, as well as expanding access to tissue and liquid biopsies globally so every patient has the opportunity for personalized therapy.

*Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by OncLive editorial staff.