Combination of two anticancer agents effective, says Introgen

The findings showed that INGN 241, in combination with Avastin produced a complete therapeutic effect in models of lung cancer. INGN 241 and Avastin each inhibit the development of blood vessels in tumors, called angiogenesis, through distinct mechanisms, and the combination of the two agents significantly increases anti-tumor activity compared to the activity of either agent used alone.

Researchers at Introgen and the University of Texas Anderson Cancer Center conducted the study.

“These results are very encouraging because they suggest that the anti-cancer activity of targeted, anti-angiogenic agents can be enhanced without increasing toxicity,” said Sunil Chada, associate vice president, Clinical R&D, at Introgen. “The data presented, and our robust body of clinical data demonstrating the favorable safety and tolerability profiles of INGN 241 suggests that this investigational cancer therapy may be combined with Avastin to make a more potent weapon in the fight against cancer.”

“INGN 241 functions to block angiogenesis by inhibiting expression of VEGF, a critical protein in tumor angiogenesis. In contrast, Avastin blocks binding of VEGF to its receptor. Thus combining these two agents with distinct anti-angiogenic mechanisms provides enhanced anti-tumor effects and completely eradicates tumors in mice, resulting in dramatic improvement in survival,” continued Sunil Chada.