Immutep Limited (ASX: IMM; NASDAQ: IMMP) announced that the Independent Data Monitoring Committee for its TACTI-004 Phase III study recommended discontinuing the trial following a planned interim futility analysis.

The study was evaluating eftilagimod alfa in patients with first-line non-small cell lung cancer. Based on its review of available safety and efficacy data, the committee recommended discontinuation for futility, according to the company's statement.

Enrollment in the study will be halted and the company will implement an orderly wind down, including patient follow-up and site closure in accordance with regulatory and ethical obligations.

"We are very disappointed and surprised with the outcome of the futility analysis, in light of efti's performance in every other clinical trial," said Marc Voigt, Chief Executive Officer.

The company stated it is conducting a comprehensive review of available data to understand the results and determine next steps for the program.

Following the trial discontinuation, Immutep expects its cash runway will extend well beyond the previously guided timeframe of Q2 2027. The company plans to provide an updated outlook on its revised cash runway and will reassess capital allocation priorities after completing operational assessments and full analysis of the study data.