Lixte Biotechnology Holdings, Inc. has entered into an agreement with the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) to conduct a clinical trial evaluating LB-100 in combination with atezolizumab for patients with metastatic colon cancer. The trial is scheduled to commence by June 30, 2024.
Trial Design and Objectives
Under the agreement, Lixte will supply LB-100, and F. Hoffman-La Roche Ltd will provide atezolizumab and fund the trial. Lixte will not be responsible for any clinical trial costs. Dr. Neeltje Steeghs at NKI's Amsterdam site will lead the study, which aims to improve the body’s immune response against cancer cells through the combination of LB-100 and atezolizumab.
The trial will consist of a dose escalation phase to determine the optimal dosage of LB-100, followed by a phase to assess clinical activity and safety. Up to 37 patients with advanced colorectal cancer will participate in the study over a 24-month period.
Mechanism of Action
LB-100 functions by inhibiting PP2A, a protein on cell surfaces. This inhibition increases stress signals in tumor cells, potentially making them more susceptible to immunotherapy. The combination with atezolizumab, a PD-L1 inhibitor, is intended to further enhance the anti-tumor immune response.
Strategic Significance
The collaboration protects the intellectual property rights of Lixte, NKI, and Roche. The trial results could lead to a novel combination therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer, an area where immunotherapy has shown promise but still faces significant challenges.
Lixte Biotechnology's recent strategic partnership for the clinical trial of LB-100 represents a potentially significant advancement in the treatment of metastatic colon cancer. InvestingPro data indicates a market capitalization of $5.67 million for Lixte, highlighting its position as a smaller entity within the biotechnology sector. Despite financial challenges, Lixte's balance sheet shows more cash than debt, offering financial flexibility for its clinical programs. Recent stock performance reveals a 19.43% increase over the last week, contrasting with a 49.3% decline over the past year, indicating notable volatility. Investors should note that Lixte does not pay dividends.
