Following recent commercial and clinical challenges, Vir Biotechnology is aggressively progressing its cancer and infectious disease pipeline. In July 2025, Vir initiated a Phase I trial for VIR-5525, a T-cell engager targeting EGFR-expressing solid tumors, both as a monotherapy and combined with Merck's Keytruda. The trial aims to measure objective responses including complete or partial tumor remission. VIR-5525 benefits from Vir’s PRO-XTEN masking technology, enhancing tumor-specific activation to mitigate off-target toxicity. This candidate and two additional T-cell engagers were exclusively licensed from Sanofi under a deal potentially worth up to $1.986 billion. Vir received $100 million upfront and a $75 million milestone payment upon first patient dosing, accelerating clinical timelines ahead of the 2026 target. This partnership exemplifies a strategic refocusing on next-generation immunotherapies with collaborative support from pharmaceutical and academic entities.