AstraZeneca’s CAR-T Therapy Study: A New Hope for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

AstraZeneca ((AZN)), AstraZeneca plc ((GB:AZN)), AstraZeneca ((DE:ZEGA)), AstraZeneca plc US ((AZNCF)) announced an update on their ongoing clinical study.

Study Overview: AstraZeneca is conducting a Phase I/II study titled ‘ATHENA’ to evaluate the safety, cellular kinetics, and efficacy of AZD5851, a CAR-T therapy targeting GPC3 in adults with advanced/recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study is significant as it explores a novel treatment for patients who have not responded to or cannot tolerate existing therapies.

Intervention/Treatment: The intervention being tested is AZD5851, a biological treatment designed as a chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy. It aims to target and treat GPC3+ advanced/recurrent HCC by leveraging the body’s immune cells to attack cancer cells.

Study Design: This is an open-label, single-group assignment study with no masking. The primary purpose is treatment, focusing on the safety and effectiveness of AZD5851 in a targeted patient group.

Study Timeline: The study began on December 14, 2023, with its primary completion and estimated completion dates yet to be announced. The last update was submitted on August 12, 2025, indicating ongoing progress and adjustments.

Market Implications: This study update could influence AstraZeneca’s stock performance positively by showcasing their commitment to innovative cancer treatments. Investors might view this as a strategic move to strengthen their oncology portfolio, potentially impacting competitor dynamics in the CAR-T therapy market.

The study is ongoing, with further details available on the ClinicalTrials portal.