Millennium takes Xenova's cancer drug into clinic
MLN944), a DNA targeting agent under evaluation for the treatment
of advanced cancers. The product is under development by USA-based
firm Millennium Pharmaceuticals and the UK's Xenova.
A UK Phase I trial has been initiated for XR5944 (also known as MLN944), a DNA targeting agent under evaluation for the treatment of advanced cancers. The product is under development by USA-based firm Millennium Pharmaceuticals and the UK's Xenova, as part of a collaborative agreement signed by the companies at the end of 2001.
The open-label, dose-escalation study will involve around 40 patients with advanced solid tumors and will evaluate the safety and tolerability of the agent, as well as its pharmacokinetic profile.
In human tumour xenograft models, treatment with XR5944 caused both partial and complete regression of large established tumours, although its precise mechanism of action has not yet been established.The start of Phase I trials is a welcome boost for Xenova, which saw its shares fall through the floor in May after its partner QLT discontinued Phase III clinical trials of tariquidar, a drug designed to overcome resistance to cancer chemotherapeutics.
