Algernon Pharmaceuticals Inc (CSE:AGN) (OTCQB:AGNPF) (FRA:AGW) is expanding its investigation into the use of Ifenprodil to pancreatic cancer with a new clinical research program.
Previous studies have indicated that Ifenprodil (NP-120) demonstrated a significant anti-tumour effect in a pancreatic cancer animal model.
A recent research paper published in the Dove Press Journal, Clinical Pharmacology: Advances and Applications concluded that Ifenprodil “significantly and rapidly” reduced the average solid tumour size by nearly 50% after three days, and remained stable while on treatment in a murine model of pancreatic cancer.
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In a statement, Vancouver-based Algernon said that it decided to expand its clinical investigation of Ifenprodil due to its effectiveness in treating a variety of different diseases in pre-clinical and clinical studies.
In a separate coronavirus (COVID-19) study, Algernon found that Ifenprodil significantly reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6) at day five in the 20mg treatment arm, compared to the standard of care group. IL-6 is a factor in multiple disease indications, including pancreatic cancer, where its over-expression is related to poor survival.
Pancreatic cancer patients have a five-year survival rate of 7.9% and a 10-year survival rate of 1%.
Algernon also noted Ifenprodil’s historical 45-year safety record as a factor in its decision to proceed with the study.
“Ifenprodil’s anti-tumour effect in this study is very impressive when you consider it does not appear to have the serious side effects typically seen with other chemotherapy agents,” said Christopher Moreau, CEO of Algernon Pharmaceuticals in a statement.
“Our business plan is to have upwards of three to four Phase 2 trials underway in 2022 and we are very pleased to be adding Ifenprodil with a cancer indication to our pipeline.”
Algernon plans to file a pre-investigational new drug (IND) request with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help determine the next steps to advance clinical studies and will file an orphan disease designation to seek Fast Track status, as well as a Breakthrough Therapy Designation.
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