Promising Potential of Bicara Therapeutics’ Ficerafusp Alfa in HPV-Negative HNSCC Drives Buy Rating

Analyst Judah Frommer from Morgan Stanley maintained a Buy rating on Bicara Therapeutics Inc. (BCAX – Research Report) and keeping the price target at $36.00.

Judah Frommer has given his Buy rating due to a combination of factors that highlight the potential of Bicara Therapeutics Inc.’s bispecific antibody, ficerafusp alfa, in treating HPV-negative patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The updated data from the Phase 1/1b study indicates a median overall survival (mOS) exceeding 20 months, which is a significant improvement over the standard of care, particularly when compared to pembro monotherapy in similar patient populations. This suggests that ficerafusp alfa could offer a substantial benefit in this challenging therapeutic area.
Additionally, the objective response rate (ORR) and complete response (CR) rates have shown promising results, with a deepening of responses over time. The study’s focus on HPV-negative patients, who typically have poorer outcomes, further underscores the potential impact of this treatment. The data also suggest that ficerafusp alfa may offer advantages over existing therapies, including those that include HPV-positive patients, thereby positioning Bicara Therapeutics favorably in the competitive landscape. These factors collectively contribute to Frommer’s positive outlook and Buy rating for BCAX.