The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of subcutaneous (SC) pembrolizumab (+) berahyaluronidase alfa in Japanese participants with recurrent or metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma or locally advanced unresectable cSCC. The primary hypothesis is that pembrolizumab (+) berahyaluronidase alfa will result in greater than 10% objective response rate (ORR) per Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors Version 1.1 (RECIST 1.1) as assessed by Blinded Independent Central Review (BICR).
Phase 2 trials begin testing efficacy in a larger patient group (100–300). This is often where biotech binary events occur — positive Phase 2 data can significantly advance a company's pipeline narrative, while failures can be terminal for a program.
Enrollment is complete. The trial is in its follow-up or data collection phase — a readout may occur on or near the primary completion date.
Merck & Co (MRK) is the sponsoring company for this trial. BiotechSign currently grades this company F (35/100) based on composite catalyst signals across its full pipeline. This trial is one data point in that overall catalyst picture.