Research conducted by Ambrilia’s collaborators and scientists has revealed that PCK3145, an anticancer synthetic peptide, binds to the cell surface laminin receptor and triggers a signaling cascade of events resulting in down-regulation of MMP-9 (matrix metalloproteinase-9) expression, a gelatinase enzyme involved in breakdown of extracellular matrix which allows tumor spread.
Phase I/II clinical studies conducted in the UK and at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York have shown the peptide to be non-toxic, well tolerated and to normalize MMP-9 levels in patients with high levels at the beginning of the study.
When treatment was stopped the MMP-9 levels were seen to rise and once again drop with continued PCK3145 treatment. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels and some disease stabilization were observed. The studies have also confirmed that a once-a-week dosing is sufficient to normalize the MMP-9 levels in the patients.
“We are very pleased with the issuance of this key patent which represents an important milestone in the development of PCK3145,” said Hans Mader, president and CEO of Ambrilia Biopharma. “This enhancement of the proprietary position that we have on PCK3145 will greatly facilitate ongoing discussions we currently have with potential co-development partners to move this promising drug further along the clinical path to regulatory approval.”