The patent claims cover methods of treating a variety of diseases with 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME2), including solid tumors or tumor metastases, and immune and inflammatory diseases. The patent is owned by Children’s Hospital Boston and licensed exclusively worldwide to EntreMed.
Panzem NCD, an oral formulation of 2ME2, is currently in phase II clinical trials for cancer. EntreMed is also developing this version of the drug for use in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is currently in preclinical development for this indication.
Panzem (2ME2) is a novel anticancer agent that is part of a next generation of antimitotic cancer drugs that bind to tubulin and work through multiple cellular pathways. 2ME2 can attack tumors on multiple fronts; directly by disrupting microtubules, by inducing programmed cell death, and by blocking blood vessels that feed tumors (angiogenesis inhibition).
Angiogenesis is also an integral component of the RA disease process. Results from preclinical studies support the potential for 2ME2 as a disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD).
“We have increasing evidence that 2ME2 has both antitumor and antiinflammatory properties, providing us with potential opportunities to treat cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. We are committed to developing a strong intellectual property position for this compound based on a portfolio of composition, method, use and formulation patents,” said James Burns, EntreMed president & CEO.