Kazia Therapeutics Ltd (ASX:KZA, NASDAQ:KZIA) is encouraged by the publication of positive pre-clinical data for EVT801, its clinical-stage drug candidate currently in a trial for multiple forms of cancer, in a peer-reviewed cancer research journal.
The publication by Dr Michael Paillasse and colleagues in Cancer Research Communications summarises a large body of pre-clinical research by scientists at Evotec SE and at the University Cancer Institute of Toulouse-Oncopole into EVT801 over a period of several years.
This data formed the basis of Kazia’s in-licensing of EVT801 from Evotec in 2021, which has since transitioned into an ongoing Phase I clinical trial in patients with advanced solid tumours.
Great potential
“These data demonstrate the substantial potential of EVT801 as a cancer therapeutic,” lead author Dr Paillasse said.
“EVT801 has been shown to act exactly as intended: by impacting the vasculature in and around the tumour. In addition, the evidence of synergy with immunotherapy is persuasive, and we see a considerable opportunity to combine the drug with immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical trials.”
Kazia’s chief executive officer Dr James Garner added: “We are delighted to see this exciting and comprehensive body of work now published in a leading peer-reviewed journal.
“The data supports our decision last year to in-license EVT801 and clearly points to the future development strategy for the drug. Our collaboration with the Evotec team has already been extremely fruitful, and we look forward to continuing to work together on this very promising drug candidate.”
Clinical trial progressing well
EVT801 acts as monotherapy in the clinical trial of patients with advanced solid tumours.
The study is progressing as planned with patients currently being dosed within the anticipated therapeutic range.
Sydney-based Kazia expects to make available initial data from the study in the first half of next year.
Read the full publication here.