What's Happening?
AstraZeneca's IMFINZI (durvalumab) combined with standard chemotherapy has demonstrated a significant improvement in overall survival for patients with early-stage gastric and gastroesophageal junction
cancers. The MATTERHORN Phase III trial results, presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology Congress 2025, revealed a 22% reduction in the risk of death compared to chemotherapy alone. The trial involved perioperative treatment with IMFINZI and FLOT chemotherapy, followed by surgery and additional IMFINZI treatment. The study showed that 69% of patients treated with the IMFINZI regimen were alive at three years, compared to 62% with chemotherapy alone.
Why It's Important?
The findings from the MATTERHORN trial could significantly impact the treatment landscape for early gastric and gastroesophageal cancers, which are known for high recurrence rates and poor long-term prognosis. The introduction of an effective immunotherapy-based regimen offers a new standard of care, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients. This development aligns with AstraZeneca's strategy to advance novel treatments into early-stage cancers, where the potential for cure is higher. The success of this regimen may encourage further research and investment in immunotherapy for other cancer types.
What's Next?
Following the positive results, AstraZeneca may seek regulatory approval to expand the use of IMFINZI in early gastric cancer treatment. The medical community will likely monitor patient outcomes closely to validate long-term benefits and safety. Additionally, healthcare providers may begin integrating this regimen into treatment protocols, potentially influencing insurance coverage and patient access. The broader oncology field will watch for further studies that could extend these findings to other cancer types or stages.
