Quest PharmaTech Doses First Patient In SL052 Photodynamic Therapy Phase I Trial

The Phase I study is expected to evaluate the localisation, safety, tolerability and preliminary treatment response of SL052 photodynamic therapy in 18 patients with localised prostate cancer.

SL052 is an injectible, synthetic derivative of a small molecular weight compound called Hypocrellin, which is isolated from a parasitic fungus that grows on bamboo trees in China.

Quest said that in Phase I trial, SL052 is inactive in a patient’s body until activated by laser light of specific wavelength. Upon light activation, oxygen radicals are formed which are known to be toxic to tumor cells. This method of treatment is known as photodynamic therapy or PDT.

Reportedly, the clinical trial is being conducted in two stages. In the first stage, up to six patients undergoing radical prostatectomy are expected to be enrolled to study the prostate specific localisation of SL052 after intra-arterial delivery.

However, in the second stage, the safety and preliminary efficacy of SL052 PDT treatment with light dose escalation will be studied in 12 patients with localised prostate cancer. The treatment response is expected to be monitored by MRI, prostate biopsy and changes in baseline PSA, which is an antigen associated with prostate disease progression.

Madi Madiyalakan, CEO of Quest, said: “SL052 photodynamic therapy is a promising treatment modality for prostate cancer as it can minimise collateral damage compared to conventional treatment approaches.

“In preclinical trials, SL052 photodynamic therapy demonstrated an impressive safety and efficacy profile. In this Phase I trial, our goal is to establish a safe and tolerable dosing regime of SL052 photodynamic therapy and monitor the patients for signals of efficacy.”