When searching for a cure for malignant mesothelioma, early evidence that a novel idea can work is cause for celebration. Known as “proof of concept,” it is generally announced when researchers have move beyond testing animal models and can show real potential for use in humans. At the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research, California-based Vivace Therapeutics announced that a Phase I trial of its new cancer drug has achieved that status.
New Mesothelioma Drug Targets Pathway Involved in Cell Proliferation
According to clinical data described to conference attendees, Vivace’s cancer drug known as VT3989 achieved durable anti-tumor responses in patients with advanced malignant mesothelioma, as well as those with other solid tumors. Six patients out of 43 with advanced malignant mesothelioma demonstrated reductions in tumor size meeting the criteria for partial responses that persisted up to 21 months. In total, the study included 69 patients, with 26 diagnosed with other types of solid tumors, and one of those 26 also experiencing tumor reduction.
VT3989 is designed to target the Hippo-YAP pathway, which is involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, programmed cell death, and cell migration. Mutations in this pathway can be dominant drivers for mesothelioma and other cancers. Of the 43 mesothelioma patients and 26 others involved in the study, all had undergone previous lines of therapy. In addition to the 7 who experienced tumor reduction, 34 patients demonstrated stable disease following treatment.
Researchers Call Mesothelioma Response Encouraging
According to Timothy A. Yap, MD, PhD, of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, “These are encouraging results that provide the first clinical proof of concept for drugging the Hippo-YAP-TEAD pathway.” His thoughts were echoed by Vivace CEO Sofie Qiao, PhD, who said, “Based on this initial successful translation of preclinical data into humans, we now have high levels of confidence in a registrational path for VT3989 as a single agent in mesothelioma as well as in combination with targeted therapies to expand utility into major solid tumors.”
As more research is conducted and progress made, mesothelioma patients and their families grow more hopeful for an eventual cure of this challenging, asbestos-related disease. For information on the resources available to you, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
