Clinical optimization of bexmarilimab as a myeloid checkpoint therapy
: Karthikeyan, Mahalakshmi; Mickos, Jesper; Hollmén, Maija
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
: 2025
Immunotherapy
: 17
: 17-18
: 1263
: 1272
: 1750-743X
: 1750-7448
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1750743X.2026.2617035
: https://doi.org/10.1080/1750743x.2026.2617035
: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/508991272
Checkpoint blockade has revolutionized cancer therapy, yet durable responses are limited by myeloid-driven immunosuppression. Bexmarilimab, a first-in-class monoclonal antibody targeting the scavenger receptor Clever-1 (Stabilin-1), represents a novel strategy to recondition tumor-associated macrophages and malignant myeloid cells. This review summarizes the biological rationale for Clever-1 targeting, appraises clinical and translational evidence, and outlines strategies to enhance therapeutic efficacy through patient selection, rational drug combinations, biomarker-driven patient stratification, and timing of intervention. We also highlight future opportunities for integrating bexmarilimab with next-generation immunotherapies and precision medicine approaches.
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This work was supported by the Research Council of Finland [ImmuDocs pilot].