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Targeted KRAS Cancer Drug Showed Promise in Early Trial

Patients with advanced pancreatic and lung cancers experienced tumor responses in a new clinical study.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Cancer

A close-up view of a clear medical vial resting on a clean white surface in a laboratory setting.
Verastem reported positive Phase 1/2 clinical trial results for its investigational oral drug VS-7375, designed to target specific KRAS G12D cancer mutations. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Verastem has reported positive Phase 1/2 clinical trial results for its investigational oral drug VS-7375. The medication is currently being studied for its ability to treat advanced cancers carrying the KRAS G12D mutation.

Why it matters

This development represents a potential new treatment path for patients with specific genetic mutations that are often difficult to address. The company has moved to secure funding to support ongoing research and future Phase 3 development for this therapy.

In a Phase 1/2 trial, researchers observed a 41% tumor response rate among 22 pancreatic cancer patients at a 900 mg dose and a 43% response rate in 23 lung cancer patients at a 600 mg dose. The pancreatic cancer cohort also achieved an 86% disease control rate.

The players

Verastem

A biotechnology company focused on developing targeted oral therapies for patients with cancer.

Michael P. Bailey

The incoming CEO of Verastem who is scheduled to take leadership of the company on Jan. 1, 2027.

Daniel Paterson

The retiring CEO of Verastem who will transition to an advisory role on the company's board.

The details

The drug VS-7375 works by targeting and blocking the KRAS G12D mutated protein, which drives cancer cell growth. By inhibiting this protein, the therapy aims to stop the proliferation of tumors in patients who carry this specific genetic alteration. This approach is intended to provide a more precise mechanism of action compared to standard broad-spectrum treatments.

Timeline

  1. • June 2026: Verastem held $136.4 million in cash and investments.

  2. • October 13, 2026: The stock closing price was used to calculate the offering premium.

  3. • October 14, 2026: The company announced the trial results and a public offering.

  4. • End of 2026: Verastem plans to initiate a Phase 3 trial for pancreatic cancer.

  5. • January 1, 2027: Michael P. Bailey will assume the role of CEO.

Health Landscape

This study marks a significant addition to the ongoing efforts to develop targeted inhibitors for the KRAS G12D mutation. The current landscape of cancer treatment is increasingly focused on these precise, mutation-specific pathways to improve upon conventional therapies.

If you or a loved one are managing a cancer diagnosis with a KRAS G12D mutation, these early results may be worth discussing with an oncologist to understand current clinical trial opportunities. Patients should work closely with their care team to determine if experimental targeted therapies are appropriate for their specific clinical profile.

The takeaway

Targeted therapies like VS-7375 are currently being developed to address specific genetic drivers of cancer that were previously difficult to treat. Patients with advanced cancers should ask their physician about the potential for genomic testing to identify if they carry a targetable KRAS mutation.

What happens next

Verastem is scheduled to launch a Phase 3 trial specifically for pancreatic cancer by the end of 2026.

Further reading

For more updates on emerging research, visit our Cancer section.

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