EpiCept initiates advanced cancer study

EPC2407 is intended for the treatment of advanced cancer patients with solid tumors that are well vascularized. These tumors include the frequently occurring cancers of the lung, gastrointestinal tract, ovaries, and breast. Despite encouraging progress in treating earlier stages of these diseases, these cancers continue to have high mortality rates in spite of some new classes of anti-tumor agents in recent years.

The phase I trial of EPC2407 will administer increasing doses to small groups in approximately 30 patients with advanced stages of solid tumors. The primary objectives of the study are to determine the safe doses and blood concentrations of the drug. The study will also characterize the pharmacodynamic effects on blood flow and identify early signs of anti-tumor response as measured by CT scans, MRI or PET, in these advanced cancer patients with well vascularized solid tumors. The trial is expected to last one year.

“EPC2407 is the second clinical cancer candidate discovered by EpiCept researchers using this apoptosis screening technology and we continue to seek other promising cancer compounds targeting markets of substantial size and large unmet medical needs,” said Jack Talley, president and CEO.