The focus is on tumours with high microsatellite instability or impaired DNA repair. These genetic alterations occur in some cases of colorectal cancer and make the tumour cells particularly dependent on certain repair mechanisms. This is precisely where VVD-214 comes in. The active substance inhibits the enzyme Werner helicase, which plays a role in repairing damaged DNA. The aim is to specifically damage cancer cells whilst minimising the impact on healthy tissue. Around 140 patients across approximately 21 countries are set to take part in the randomised trial. The trial will compare the combination of VVD-214 and pembrolizumab with pembrolizumab monotherapy. A key endpoint is the proportion of patients whose disease has not progressed after six months.
Initial clinical findings from a Phase I trial provided evidence of the drug’s potential efficacy and tolerability. However, it is not yet possible to draw firm conclusions regarding its additional therapeutic benefit. In parallel, Vividion is investigating VVD-214 in combination with bevacizumab in patients whose colorectal cancer has already been treated.
For Bayer, the development programme forms part of its strategy to invest specifically in new molecular targets in cancer medicine. Vividion is focusing on active substances that target structures in cancer cells which have hitherto been difficult to access. The ongoing study is now intended to show whether inhibition of the Werner helicase can offer additional therapeutic benefit compared with established immunotherapies.
News from “BAYER AG” dated 15 October 2026