Xenova today announced that patient
dosing has begun at the University Hospital of Rotterdam, Rotterdam Cancer Institute with XR11576 (MLN576), a novel anti-cancer agent. This open label, Phase I trial is being carried out at centres in the UK and the
Netherlands and comprises multiple ascending oral doses in patients with solid tumours. Patients will be monitored for safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and anti-tumour activity.
XR11576 (MLN576) is one of a programme of compounds for the treatment of solid tumours. Along with compounds XR5944 (MLN944) and XR11612 (MLN612), XR11576 (MLN576) is the subject of a licence agreement with
Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc, which was announced in December 2001 for the development and exclusive North American commercialisation rights to this programme. The compounds are believed to be novel DNA targeting agents that affect the
DNA replication process through a mechanism of action which involves the dual inhibition of topoisomerases I and II. Xenova retains responsibility for performing development activities associated with the programme, which will be funded by Millennium commencing in 2003, to the end of Phase II
clinical trials.
David Oxlade, Xenova’s Chief Executive, said: “XR11576 has shown considerable promise in preclinical studies including good oral
bioavailability. These compounds have a novel and exciting mechanism of action and have shown considerable evidence of activity in in vivo xenograft models. There remains a clear need in the marketplace for new cytotoxics in order to improve the quality of treatment and outcomes for a large number of cancer patients.”