On May 17, 2023 Panolos Biosciences reported that the company has initiated the first human clinical trials for its anti-cancer drug, ‘PB101’, which targets all variants of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (Press release, Panolos Bioscience, MAY 17, 2023, View Source [SID1234633692]). This event marks a significant milestone as no drug has so far been introduced that entirely blocks placental growth factor (PlGF) within the VEGF family. The move is expected to revolutionize the field of cancer treatment. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has given the go-ahead for the phase 1 clinical trial plan (IND) for ‘PB101’ as of May 15. This comes after Panolos submitted an IND to the MFDS in the latter part of last year.
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Cancer cells generate abnormal blood vessels around them by secreting angiogenic factors to derive the necessary nutrients for survival. VEGF-A (vascular endothelial generating factor A) is one such angiogenic factor that facilitates angiogenesis by binding with VEGF receptors. However, unstable blood vessels around cancer cells can undermine the effectiveness of intravenous anti-cancer drugs. Strategies like angiogenesis inhibition, as seen with Roche’s ‘Avastin’, have been formulated. Nonetheless, Avastin, while blocking VEGF-A, crucial for placental formation, could induce the expression of Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) in cancer cells, indicating a potential adverse prognosis for cancer patients.
‘PB101’, a new anti-cancer drug candidate, seeks to enhance treatment efficacy by inhibiting all types of VEGF, including VEGF-A and PlGF. This drug was developed by Panolos in collaboration with numerous experts including Professor Hong Jae Chon and Chan Kim of the Department of Hematology and Oncology at CHA University Bundang Medical Center.
The company reveals that ‘PB101’ is a protein about two-thirds the size of a typical antibody and is capable of binding to both VEGF-A and PlGF. It contains fragments of the Fc (Fragment crystallizable) region, allowing it to remain in the body for an extended duration. The drug primarily comprises two sections, including the VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1), which can yield therapeutic effects. Panolos anticipates that ‘PB101’ will set itself apart due to its higher PlGF binding capability compared to existing drugs.
The phase 1 clinical trial approved by the MFDS is a dosage extension and expansion study. It aims to assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties, and preliminary anti-tumor activity of PB101 in patients with advanced solid cancer. The study is being conducted at three locations: the CHA University Bundang Medical Center, The Catholic University of Korea Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, and the Seoul National University Bundang Hospital.