Array BioPharma and Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. have entered into a clinical research collaboration to investigate the safety, tolerability and efficacy of Array’s investigational MEK inhibitor, binimetinib in combination with BMS’ Opdivo (nivolumab) and Opdivo + Yervoy (ipilimumab) regimen as a potential treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer in patients with microsatellite stable tumors.
 
The Phase 1/2 study is expected to establish recommended dose regimens for further study and explore the preliminary anti-tumor activity of combining binimetinib with Opdivo, as well as binimetinib in combination with the Opdivo + Yervoy regimen.  Results from this first study, which is anticipated to begin in 2H17, will be used to determine optimal approaches to further development of these combinations. Array and BMS will jointly support the study with Array acting as the sponsor.
 
 
“Array is pleased to announce this new collaboration with Bristol-Myers Squibb,” said Ron Squarer, chief executive officer Array BioPharma. “Based on emerging data, we believe that studying combinations of targeted therapies, such as binimetinib, with immuno-oncology agents, such as Opdivo and Yervoy, could provide important scientific advances for patients fighting cancer.”
 
“Colorectal cancer remains a challenging tumor where immunotherapy benefits have been limited to a subset of patients,” said Fouad Namouni, senior vice president, head of Oncology Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb. “We are committed to investigating a wide range of oncology therapies, and look forward to studying the combination of Array’s MEK inhibitor and our immunotherapies with the goal of developing more treatment options for patients.”