The company plans to begin a phase III study in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) in the first quarter of 2006, pending review by the FDA. The study will include multiple doses to assess the safety and efficacy of HspE7 in patients with RRP. Efficacy will be measured by increases in intersurgical interval.
Stressgen Biotechnologies will be developing an additional HspE7 product that incorporates the reformulation of the compound with an adjuvant. The company expects to be prepared to begin a phase I proof-of-concept study with this product in the first quarter of 2006.
According to recent reports in the Canadian National Post, the company is looking for a partner to help finance the development of HspE7. Stressgen believes a partner could bring expertise while helping to underwrite some of the expenses associated with drug development. All prior funding for the drug had come from the company itself.
In a bid to save cash Stressgen cut its staff in half earlier this year.