Archemix plans to present a complete data set from this phase I clinical trial within a peer-reviewed forum in 2007.
The drug, ARC1779, is designed to selectively block the activation, adhesion and aggregation of platelets by inhibiting the binding of von Willebrand Factor (vWF) to the GPIb receptor on platelets. Activated vWF is scientifically recognized as the first stage of arterial thrombus formation and plays a significant role in the development of harmful blood clots.
Archemix plans to develop ARC1779 as an anti-thrombotic drug for use in angioplasty and in a rare blood disorder that is mediated by vWF known as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, or TTP.
Based on the proof-of-mechanism data from this phase I study, Archemix plans to commence a phase II study of ARC1779 to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ARC1779 in acute coronary syndrome patients during the fourth quarter of 2007. Additionally, Archemix plans to initiate a phase Ib study of ARC1779 in patients suffering from TTP in the fourth quarter of 2007.
Approximately 3,000 new cases of TTP are diagnosed per year in the US, but currently there is no approved drug therapy for the disease.