Protherics initiates Phase IIa liver cancer study

The Phase IIa proof-of-concept study is designed to evaluate tumor response in addition to safety and tolerability of Prolarix in 14 patients with non-resectable hepatocellular carcinoma who have not been treated with sorafenib.

The study has been initiated at a site in Belgium and additional study sites in east Asia have been identified for inclusion in the study. The results of the study are expected in the second half of 2009.

Andrew Heath, CEO of Protherics, said: “Prolarix offers renewed hope for the many patients with primary liver cancer for whom there are very few treatment options. If the results from this study are positive, a licensing partner will be sought for Asia where the incidence of this type of cancer is highest.”