Angiostatin Trial in Colon Cancer Patients Shows No Toxicity

EntreMed, Inc. announced Phase I clinical findings in a study where cancer patients, including five being treated for colon cancer, were given the drug Angiostatin for almost one year with no cumulative side effects.

Angiostatin is a drug that inhibits the abnormal blood vessel growth associated with cancer. The participants in the study, all with advanced cancer, self-administered Angiostatin using a shot similar to that used by diabetics to deliver insulin.

EntreMed plans to expand this study to explore the use of additional Angiostatin doses in more patients.

"As a scientist, I want to explore further this cancer drug candidate that to date has shown a lack of toxicity and the ability to stabilize disease," said Dr. Emile E. Voest, Professor, Department of Medical Oncology at University Medical Center Utrecht in The Netherlands and lead investigator for the Angiostatin study.

"As a clinician, I want to continue treating patients and preserve quality of life by allowing patients to manage their cancer at home with a self-administered shot," he said.

Other Sources: EntreMed