read this as well. This is a very intriguing move from $MRK.
After NY-ESO-1 based CMB305 failed Tecentriq combo in synovial sarcoma, $IMDZ decided to focus on G100 intratumoral TLR4 agonist for NHL.
So clearly $MRK IS interested in activating DCs via TLR pathway AND intratumoral delivery route (also with its own STING agonist). However, TLR4, IMHO, is a mediocre TLR target comparing with CpG-TLR9.
1. TLR4 is on cell surface, TLR9 is in the endosome
2. TLR4 is less APC specific, TLR9 is DC specific.
3. TLR4 is a poor interferon inducer, TLR9 is excellent IFN inducer.
The first two points will lead to toxicity, and the last point may suggest inferior efficacy.
For whatever reason, $MRK decided to buy $IMDZ. The chance of a deal with $DVAX?
Will $MRK partner up with another TLR company? Let's see.
