Considerations of non-human primate use in nonclinical toxicity study package for oncology therapeutics with well-characterized target in supports of 3Rs – an IQ DruSafe industry survey

Development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for oncology is increasing. An IQ DruSafe Working Group conducted an industry survey to evaluate non-human primate (NHP) use in nonclinical toxicity testing of oncology mAbs for well-characterized targets (WchT) with the aim to identify opportunities to reduce NHP use. The survey addressed sources of information used to justify WchT, weight of evidence (WoE) approaches to reduce NHP use, and design of nonclinical toxicology programs. All respondents used literature to define WchT. WoE approaches helped reduce the number and size of general toxicology studies. Most companies conducted non-Good Laboratory Practice (non-GLP) dose-range finding studies prior to GLP toxicology studies, often non-terminally, allowing for potential reuse of NHPs. For GLP studies, most companies maintained a standard design for 1-month studies (when conducted) but were more flexible with 3-month studies, often excluding recovery groups. Case studies illustrate successful regulatory acceptance of streamlined nonclinical safety packages. Engaging drug regulatory authorities (DRA) to discuss the need for additional and/or specialized studies would be beneficial to reduce NHP use. In conclusion, NHP use can be reduced in developing oncology therapeutics against WchT by optimizing nonclinical toxicology approaches with appropriate strategic planning, fit-for-purpose toxicology study designs, and discussion with DRA.