The aim of the study was to study the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the candidate drug in humans, i.e. absorption and excretion. These data have significance for the administration of the substance, how often it should be given, etc.
The study shows that the candidate drug TASQ has pharmacokinetic properties that makes it well suitable for oral administration. The study also forms a solid ground for the further clinical development.
The TASQ project aims to develop an orally active substance for the treatment of prostate cancer. Active Biotech is cooperating in the project with Professor John T. Isaacs at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA. Previous studies have shown that the TASQ substance does not suppress the enzyme systems (so-called kinases), which are target molecules for most of today's anti-angiogenetic substances. This means that the mechanism of action for TASQ is different.
The company now expects to be able to start the first dose escalation study as planned during spring 2003. When relevant doses have been established, another Phase I study will be performed in patients with prostate cancer.
Lund 29 January 2003
Active Biotech AB
Sven Andréasson
President&CEO
Active Biotech AB is a biotechnology company focusing on research in and development of pharmaceuticals. Active Biotech has a strong R&D portfolio and pipeline products with focus primarily on autoimmune/inflammatory diseases and cancer. Most advanced projects include orally administered small molecules with unique immunomodulatory properties that can be used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases (SAIK), as well as a novel concept for use in cancer immunotherapy (TTS).
Active Biotech AB
Box 724, 220 07 Lund
Sweden
Tel 046-19 20 00
Fax 046-19 20 50
e-mail info@activebiotech.com