Azixa is being developed to treat brain cancer. Azixa represents the first confirmed clinical proof of concept for this new technology, which is the basis for the Epicept's oncology drug discovery efforts.
Based on the promising results, Myriad intends to initiate phase II clinical trials for the drug triggering a milestone payment to EpiCept.
In the phase I study of Azixa in cancer that has metastasized to the brain the drug achieved its maximum tolerated dose in patients. Myriad also noted a measured reduction in tumor size in certain patients.
“As this work proceeds, we are also advancing the lead drug candidates that have already been identified. This includes our anticipated IND filing for EPC2407, a small molecule apoptosis inducer for the treatment of certain types of cancer, later this year,” remarked Jack Talley, president and CEO.
EpiCept's proprietary apoptosis screening technology can efficiently identify new cancer drug candidates and molecular targets that selectively induce apoptosis in cancer cells through the use of chemical genetics.