ONCOS-102 Passes Safety Evaluation in Phase I Clinical Trials, Phase II Clinical Trial Recommended
A new immunotherapy developed by Targovax has recently passed Phase I clinical trials and is set to begin Phase II evaluation of this new treatment that may help those suffering from mesothelioma. ONCOS-102 was used in separate Phase I clinical trials; one in combination with chemotherapy, and one with immunotherapy.
Cisplatin and pemetrexed are two first-line chemotherapy treatments for those suffering from mesothelioma. When ONCOS-102 was combined with these two treatments, it was found to be well-tolerated and passed initial safety reviews. KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) is a relatively knew immunotherapy treatment that was approved earlier this year by the FDA after Phase III clinical trials showed an overall survival progression. For many suffering from mesothelioma, the immune system has already been compromised and checkpoint inhibitors, like KEYTRUDA®, can have little effect on strengthening the body’s own natural defenses. Researchers are investigating whether or not the immune system can be revitalized with ONCOS-102, allowing for KEYTUDA® to be effective.
After passing the initial safety concerns, it’s been recommended that clinical trials for both continue. The randomized Phase II trial is an open-label, multi-center trial for patients with unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma. Six patients will be evaluated to compare the treatment in combination with chemotherapy. The Phase II trial will also further evaluate immune system response.
What Is ONCOS-102?
The oncolytic virus is a virus that kills cancer cells. When these cancer cells are destroyed, particles are released that destroy the remaining tumor(s). In addition to destroying the tumor, these viruses are thought to help fuel anti-tumor immune responses. ONCOS-102 is an immunotherapy that is based on engineered oncolytic viruses and targets the patient’s immune system to fight the cancer.
Targovax is a Norwegian immune-cology company that dedicates its time and resources for the development of highly targeted immunotherapy treatments for cancer patients. Many believe immunotherapy treatments are the treatments of future – working to strengthen the body’s own immune system so the body can better fight devastating cancer that normally require chemotherapy treatments, which can cause serious side effects.