Bristol Myers Squibb Sharpens Oncology Focus with Strategic Pipeline Review

In a move to streamline its oncology division, Bristol Myers Squibb has discontinued a clinical development program inherited from its subsidiary, Mirati Therapeutics. The decision to terminate the SOS1 inhibitor known as MRTX0902 underscores the pharmaceutical giant's strategy to consolidate resources more effectively following its multi-billion dollar acquisition.

• The MRTX0902 clinical development program has been officially halted.
• Strategic emphasis is now placed on the commercialized drug Krazati.
• Integrating the most promising Mirati assets is a key priority.

The discontinued drug candidate, MRTX0902, had been under investigation in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial for solid tumors since 2022. Initial results from this study were previously anticipated around mid-2026. The program evaluated the compound both as a monotherapy and in combination with the KRAS inhibitor Krazati (adagrasib).

This termination suggests the company's leadership assessed the commercial potential and clinical prospects of this specific program as less compelling compared to other assets in its expanded pipeline. The action represents a routine portfolio optimization within the pharmaceutical industry, redirecting research budgets toward candidates with a higher perceived probability of success.

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Consolidating the Mirati Therapeutics Acquisition

Bristol Myers Squibb finalized its acquisition of Mirati Therapeutics in January 2024, absorbing a suite of oncology assets. While MRTX0902 has been cut, other components of the deal remain central to the company's long-term growth strategy.

Primary focus is now on the commercial scaling of Krazati, which already holds U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for certain forms of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Furthermore, Bristol Myers Squibb is advancing other inherited programs. These include a potentially best-in-class PRMT5 inhibitor currently in Phase 1 trials, alongside several other KRAS-directed candidates in early-stage clinical development.

For Bristol Myers Squibb, the immediate roadmap emphasizes the commercial expansion of Krazati and progress in the PRMT5 studies, while reducing expenditure on early-phase projects deemed less viable.