Robert LeBoyer, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Biotechnology, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Cardiff Made Two Significant Announcements. New data from the Phase 2 CRDF-004 trial testing onvansertib as a first line treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer was announced as expected. Patients in the high-dose onvansertib group showed a large benefit in overall response rates (ORR) and progression free survival (PFS). Separately, the CEO and CFO have left the company. Board Member Dr. Mani Mohindru was named Interim CEO.
Phase 2 Trial Design. As discussed in our January 5 report, CDRF-004 is a Phase 2 dose-finding trial testing two doses of onvansertib in combination with two standard-of-care (SOC) regimens against the standard of care regimens alone. It enrolled 110 patients with RAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer, mCRC. Its primary endpoint is objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints include progression-free survival (PFS), duration of response (DOR) and safety. These endpoints were selected to guide the design of Phase 3.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
– Onvansertib added to FOLFIRI/bev first-line standard of care regimen showed dose-dependent improvement in overall response rates and durability trends as measured by progression-free survival in patients with RAS-mutated mCRC –
– Data support selection of 30 mg onvansertib dose for registrational program in first-line RAS-mutated mCRC –
– Data validate previously reported positive results from Phase 2 trial of onvansertib with FOLFIRI/bev in second-line mCRC bev-naïve patients, as published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology –
– Onvansertib continues to be safe and well-tolerated –
– Company expects to provide final data and registrational plans in first half of 2026 –
– Company to hold conference call today at 8:30 a.m. ET/5:30 a.m. PT –
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cardiff Oncology, Inc. (Nasdaq: CRDF), a clinical-stage biotechnology company leveraging PLK1 inhibition to develop novel therapies across a range of cancers, today announced a positive update from CRDF-004, a randomized dose-finding Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating onvansertib in combination with standard of care (SoC) regimens (FOLFIRI/bevacizumab (bev) or FOLFOX/bev) in patients with first-line (1L) RAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). In an intent-to-treat analysis, the clinical data show dose-dependent benefits across multiple efficacy measures in patients receiving onvansertib with FOLFIRI/bev compared to patients receiving either SoC regimen. In this trial, onvansertib with FOLFIRI/bev also performed better than onvansertib with FOLFOX/bev.
Based on these results, the Company has selected the 30 mg dose of onvansertib with FOLFIRI/bev to bring forward in a registrational trial in 1L patients with RAS-mutated mCRC. Cardiff Oncology plans to initiate a registrational program later this year pending finalization of the trial design in consultation with the FDA, in which the Company expects to compare onvansertib with FOLFIRI/bev to SoC regimens, FOLFIRI/bev or FOLFOX/bev.
“These data demonstrate promising enhanced benefits of onvansertib when combined with FOLFIRI/bev in RAS-mutated mCRC patients,” said Mani Mohindru, PhD, interim Chief Executive Officer. “We observed a consistent, dose-dependent treatment benefit across multiple measures of efficacy, including achieving statistical significance for PFS compared to SoC even with relatively small patient numbers. The 30 mg onvansertib–FOLFIRI/bev arm outperformed both SoC arms with no significant additive toxicity, supporting findings from our previous Phase 2 trial in second-line RAS-mutated mCRC. While we continue to review data from the ongoing trial, our plan is to rapidly move forward with the onvansertib 30 mg dose in combination with FOLFIRI/bev and we believe confirmatory data from a registrational trial has the potential to make this regimen a new SoC for 1L treatment of RAS-mutated mCRC.”
Bev=bevacizumab; BICR=Blinded Independent Central Review; CI=confidence interval; HR=hazard ratio; NR=not reached; Onv=onvansertib; ORR=objective response rate; PFS=progression-free survival; SoC=standard of care. aORR is confirmed responses bProgressive disease events were based on combined BICR and Investigator assessments due to very small number of events in BICR assessment. The earliest reported date was used for a conservative estimate. cSoC is the combination of the FOLFIRI/bev and FOLFOX/bev arms dPFS HR is the comparison of the onvansertib arm to FOLFIRI/bev ePFS HR is the comparison of the onvansertib arm to SoC fFisher’s exact test gLog-rank test
“There is a clear need for improved first-line treatment options for patients with mCRC, especially the half of those with RAS-mutated disease,” said Dr. J Randolph Hecht, MD, Professor of Clinical Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. “Unfortunately, first-line treatment for these patients hasn’t improved significantly for more than two decades. Onvansertib has a novel mechanism of action and these preliminary responses and PFS results in combination with FOLFIRI/bevacizumab are encouraging enough to test in a large Phase 3 trial. If such a trial were positive, it could become a new standard of care for these patients.”
Onvansertib in combination with both chemo/bev regimens was well-tolerated. There were no major or unexpected toxicities observed and no additive adverse events. Grade 3 or higher adverse events were infrequent, with neutropenia being the most common treatment-emergent adverse event across both the onvansertib combination and standard of care arms.
Conference Call and Webcast Cardiff Oncology will host a conference call and live webcast today, January 27, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. ET / 5:30 a.m. PT. Individuals interested in listening may do so by using the link in the “Events” section of the Company’s website. A replay will be available in the investor relations section on the Company’s website following the completion of the call.
CRDF-004 Trial Design The CRDF-004 Phase 2 trial was designed to evaluate two doses of onvansertib to identify the lowest maximally effective dose and to assess the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of onvansertib in combination with FOLFIRI/bevacizumab or FOLFOX/bevacizumab in first-line patients with KRAS- or NRAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). The trial’s endpoints include objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), duration of response, and safety.
For additional information about the trial, please visit www.clinicaltrials.gov (Trial ID: NCT06106308).
About Onvansertib Onvansertib is a highly specific, oral PLK1 inhibitor currently in mid-stage clinical development for RAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer. It is also being evaluated in multiple other cancers through investigator-initiated studies, including metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC), triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). Promising monotherapy clinical results from an ongoing CMML trial were recently presented at the American Society of Hematology annual meeting in December 2025. CMML represents a rare disease with significant unmet need.
About Cardiff Oncology, Inc. Cardiff Oncology is a clinical-stage biotechnology company advancing innovative cancer treatments focused on PLK1 inhibition, a validated oncology target with practice-changing potential. Our lead asset, onvansertib, is a highly specific, oral PLK1 inhibitor currently being evaluated in a Phase 2 trial for first-line treatment of RAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), addressing a large, underserved patient population with high unmet need. Onvansertib is also under investigation in other PLK1-driven cancers through ongoing investigator-initiated trials and has shown robust single agent clinical activity in hard-to-treat tumors. By targeting tumor vulnerabilities, we aim to overcome treatment resistance and deliver improved clinical outcomes for patients.
Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified using words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimated” and “intend” or other similar terms or expressions that concern Cardiff Oncology’s expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on Cardiff Oncology’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are several factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, clinical trials involve a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and results of earlier studies and trials may not be predictive of future trial results; our clinical trials may be suspended or discontinued due to unexpected side effects or other safety risks that could preclude approval of our product candidate; results of preclinical studies or clinical trials for our product candidate could be unfavorable or delayed; our need for additional financing; risks related to business interruptions, including the outbreak of COVID-19 coronavirus and cyber-attacks on our information technology infrastructure, which could seriously harm our financial condition and increase our costs and expenses; uncertainties of government or third party payer reimbursement; dependence on key personnel; limited experience in marketing and sales; substantial competition; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; dependence upon third parties; and risks related to failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations. There are no guarantees that our product candidate will be utilized or prove to be commercially successful. Additionally, there are no guarantees that future clinical trials will be completed or successful or that our product candidate will receive regulatory approval for any indication or prove to be commercially successful. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in Cardiff Oncology’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. While the list of factors presented here is considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles to the realization of forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included herein are made as of the date hereof, and Cardiff Oncology does not undertake any obligation to update publicly such statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 27, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cardiff Oncology, Inc. (Nasdaq: CRDF), a clinical-stage biotechnology company leveraging PLK1 inhibition to develop novel therapies across a range of cancers, today announced a leadership transition designed to support the Company’s next phase of growth and advancement toward late-stage development and key clinical and corporate milestones.
Mani Mohindru, PhD, a member of Cardiff Oncology’s Board of Directors since 2021 and a seasoned biotech executive, has been appointed interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mark Erlander, PhD, Chief Executive Officer, and James Levine, Chief Financial Officer, have stepped down from their respective roles.
As part of this transition, Ms. Brigitte Lindsay has been promoted to the role of Chief Accounting Officer, ensuring continuity within the finance function. She has been with the Company for more than 14 years and was most recently the Senior Vice President of Finance. The Company has initiated a search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.
Cardiff Oncology’s lead product candidate, onvansertib, a highly specific, oral PLK1 inhibitor, is currently in mid-stage clinical development for RAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) and is also being evaluated as a single agent and in combinations across multiple additional cancers in investigator-initiated studies, including metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, small cell lung cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. The leadership transition reflects the Company’s focus on execution and clinical advancement as its programs mature.
“As Cardiff Oncology prepares for the next stage of clinical and corporate development, the Board concluded that this was the right moment to align executive and financial leadership with the Company’s evolving needs,” said Rodney S. Markin, MD, PhD, Chairman of the Board. “We want to express our sincere gratitude to Mark and Jamie for their significant contributions in guiding Cardiff to where it stands today—especially in the progress of our lead product candidate in first-line RAS-mutated mCRC, an area of high unmet need where there have not been any significant advancements in many years. Looking forward, we are confident in Dr. Mohindru’s ability to lead the Company at this key moment in onvansertib’s clinical development, as she brings a rare combination of deep scientific training, operational leadership, and capital markets expertise.”
“Cardiff Oncology has built a strong scientific and clinical foundation around PLK1 inhibition, with onvansertib demonstrating encouraging activity in a challenging to treat patient population,” said Mani Mohindru, PhD, interim Chief Executive Officer. “Given onvansertib’s activity in RAS-mutated mCRC as well as encouraging single agent data, there is potential to extend its benefit to other solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. I look forward to working closely with the Board and the team to sharpen our strategic priorities, advance our clinical programs, and thoughtfully position the Company for late-stage development while maintaining a disciplined approach to capital and execution.”
Dr. Mohindru is an experienced biotechnology executive with leadership experience spanning drug development, corporate strategy, and capital markets. She is the founder of Roshon Therapeutics, a private biotechnology company focused on developing novel therapies for cancer and inflammatory diseases, and currently serves on the Board of Directors of CytomX Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: CTMX). Previously, Dr. Mohindru served as Chief Executive Officer and Board Director of Novasenta and CereXis, and held senior leadership roles at public biotechnology companies including Cara Therapeutics, Inc. and Curis, Inc.
Earlier in her career, Dr. Mohindru was an equity research analyst covering the biotechnology sector at UBS, Credit Suisse, and ThinkEquity. She currently serves on the Executive Advisory Board of the CLP Institute at Northwestern University and the Scientific Investment Advisory Committee of the Gates Institute at the University of Colorado. Dr. Mohindru holds a PhD in Neurosciences from Northwestern University, as well as a BS in Human Biology and a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi, India.
About Cardiff Oncology, Inc. Cardiff Oncology is a clinical-stage biotechnology company advancing innovative cancer treatments focused on PLK1 inhibition, a validated oncology target with practice-changing potential. Our lead asset, onvansertib, is a highly specific, oral PLK1 inhibitor currently being evaluated in a Phase 2 trial for first-line treatment of RAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), addressing a large, underserved patient population with high unmet need. Onvansertib is also under investigation in other PLK1-driven cancers through ongoing investigator-initiated trials and has shown robust single agent clinical activity in hard-to-treat tumors. By targeting tumor vulnerabilities, we aim to overcome treatment resistance and deliver improved clinical outcomes for patients.
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified using words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimated” and “intend” or other similar terms or expressions that concern Cardiff Oncology’s expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on Cardiff Oncology’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are several factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, our ability to conduct a successful search for and hire a permanent CEO and CFO, clinical trials involve a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and results of earlier studies and trials may not be predictive of future trial results; our clinical trials may be suspended or discontinued due to unexpected side effects or other safety risks that could preclude approval of our product candidate; results of preclinical studies or clinical trials for our product candidate could be unfavorable or delayed; our need for additional financing; risks related to business interruptions, including the outbreak of COVID-19 coronavirus and cyber-attacks on our information technology infrastructure, which could seriously harm our financial condition and increase our costs and expenses; uncertainties of government or third party payer reimbursement; dependence on key personnel; limited experience in marketing and sales; substantial competition; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; dependence upon third parties; and risks related to failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations. There are no guarantees that our product candidate will be utilized or prove to be commercially successful. Additionally, there are no guarantees that future clinical trials will be completed or successful or that our product candidate will receive regulatory approval for any indication or prove to be commercially successful. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in Cardiff Oncology’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. While the list of factors presented here is considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles to the realization of forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included herein are made as of the date hereof, and Cardiff Oncology does not undertake any obligation to update publicly such statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
Robert LeBoyer, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Biotechnology, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Initiating Coverage With A $12 Price Target. Cardiff Oncology is developing onvansertib for the treatment of multiple cancer indications. Its lead program is in metastatic colorectal cancer for patients with a mutation that makes the cancer more aggressive and difficult to treat. This mutation, KRAS, is found in about 45% of the colorectal cancer patients. As a result of the mutation, several standard therapies are ineffective. We believe onvansertib’s unique mechanisms of action could be a breakthrough in cancer treatment.
Onvansertib Has Two Main Mechanisms of Action. Onvansertib inhibits PLK1, an intracellular protein needed for regulatory functions that control cell growth and division. This protein can be overexpressed in many cancers, including colorectal cancer, overriding the normal controls. A second mechanism stops a pathway that allows tumors to survive in low oxygen environments and resist treatment with bevacizumab (Avastin).
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
