Sevabertinib, a Reversible HER2 Inhibitor with Activity in Lung Cancer

Abstract

Exon 20 insertions of HER2, encoded by ERBB2, and other activating HER2 mutations occur in 2-4% of lung adenocarcinomas, but there are only limited therapeutic options available for these patients. Sevabertinib (BAY 2927088) is a potent and reversible dual EGFR-HER2 inhibitor that is selective with respect to wild-type EGFR. Here, we report the preclinical activity of sevabertinib in lung cancer models harboring alterations of HER2, including exon 20 insertions, point mutations, and amplification of wild-type ERBB2. We furthermore demonstrate the activity of sevabertinib in a cancer cell line dependent on a fusion of NRG1, a ligand for the HER2 family member and heterodimerization partner, HER3. Finally, we report patient responses to sevabertinib from a Phase 1/2 clinical trial, indicating potential benefit for patients with HER2-mutant lung cancer.