Atossa Genetics Inc (NASDAQ:ATOS) was one of the biggest small-cap movers on Monday after the junior pharma was given the green light to kick off a mid-stage trial of its flagship breast cancer candidate.
The Seattle-based company told investors it has received approval from Swedish regulators to begin a phase II study of its Endoxifen drug as a treatment for women with mammographic breast density (MBD).
Although MBD is not actually the cancer itself, studies have shown that a reduction in MBD reduces the risk of developing breast cancer and may improve the accuracy of mammograms in identifying cancer.
The primary endpoint of the trial, which is taking place at a Stockholm hospital, will be individual change in MBD, while safety and tolerability will be secondary endpoints.
Of the 90 patients, 30 will be given a placebo, while the remaining two groups of 30 will be given different doses of Endoxifen.
Atossa shares leapt 16.3% to US$3.92 early on Monday morning.