Aquisition of genscreen technology
Novogen Ltd's, (NRT) acquisition of Genscreen’s anti-Tm technology adds a novel chemistry that brings diversity to its pipeline, which is currently focused on the core super-benzopyran technology. The lead super-benzopyran analogue Trilexium has already shown activity in a range of cancer cell models including brain and ovarian cancers, and positive in vivo data could enter Phase I trials by H114, which is the next stock catalyst.
Acquisition of Genscreen’s anti-Tm technology
Novogen has obtained a second anti-cancer platform built on a class of compounds known as anti-tropomyosins (anti-Tms) from privately-held Australian biotech, Genscreen Pty Ltd. The consideration is a 3% royalty payment on product sales, with no upfront or milestone fees. Novogen plans to start a lead identification programme initially in prostate cancer, melanoma and neuroblastoma.
Selectively targets actin cytoskeleton in cancer cells
Anti-Tm compounds purportedly target the protein Tm5NM1 found in cytoskeletal (non-muscle) tropomyosin-containing filaments in cancer cells. This disrupts specific actin filament populations that are upregulated in cancers, impairing both tumour cell division and migration. The selectivity of anti-Tm agents potentially offers an advantage over existing classes of approved antimitotic chemotherapy agents that target the cytoskeleton, such as taxanes and vinca alkaloids, which while effective are often associated with unacceptable toxic side effects.
Super-benzopyran lead Trilexium – next steps
Novogen believes its technology around the super-benzopyran scaffold will represent the next generation of a technology that has already delivered candidates with promising anti-cancer activity. Its lead candidate, Trilexium (CS-6), has demonstrated potent anti-tumour activity against cancer cell lines, including GBM (primary brain cancer) and ovarian cancer (including ovarian cancer stem cells). Positive data from in vivo GBM studies (Q413) would pave the way for a planned 24-patient Phase I study in advanced solid tumours (primarily GBM) in H114.
Financials: Funded to 2014
Novogen has cash of A$3.6m (October 2013), which provides a cash runway to H114, with additional funding available by way of a US$5m convertible note. This should allow completion of preclinical studies and commencement of Phase I trials in both Asia-Pacific and the US, pending IND approval.
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