Contact | 
Print version | 
PDF version | 
Send article | 
RSS feed
Antisoma starts phase I clinical trial of AS1409 in renal cancer and melanoma
26 Feb 2008 -
Antisoma plc announced the entry of AS1409 into clinical trials. A phase I trial has started in patients with renal cancer and melanoma. The trial has two parts. In the first, successive cohorts of patients will receive increasing doses of AS1409. This will continue until a maximum tolerated dose is identified. The second part of the trial will evaluate the safety and activity of that dose in around 20 more patients. Final results are expected in 2009.
AS1409 is a genetically engineered fusion protein, which combines the anti-tumour cytokine IL-12 with a tumour-targeting antibody. Other companies have tested IL-12 as an anti-cancer drug. Clinical trials reported promising signs of activity in renal cancer and melanoma. However, IL-12 also caused significant side-effects. Combining IL-12 with a tumour-targeting antibody aims to target its effects specifically to tumours, avoiding unwanted effects on healthy tissues.
Hospitals in the UK and New Zealand are taking part in the phase I study. UK cancer specialist and trial investigator Dr James Spicer, of Guys and St Thomas' Hospital, London, said: "AS1409 is an interesting approach because it builds on the activity already seen with IL-12, but seeks to harness this to achieve a more tumour-specific effect. I hope that this will ultimately translate into a benefit for patients, and look forward to seeing the outcomes of the phase I trial."
The targeting antibody used in AS1409 binds to a protein found around blood vessels in many types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate, as well as renal cancer and melanoma. The drug therefore has broad potential.
Top
