Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals PLC has announced the successful development of a clinical-grade assay designed to assess FLT3 protein expression in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells. This advancement is crucial for identifying and recruiting suitable patients for the upcoming Phase I clinical trials of the company's HEMO-CAR-T product candidate, marking a significant step toward a potentially life-saving treatment for AML patients.
The Phase I clinical trials are scheduled to begin shortly at MD Anderson Cancer Center, a leading institution in cancer care. There are also plans to expand the trials to the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center. The development of this assay represents a critical milestone in advancing HEMO-CAR-T towards clinical trials.
Significance of the FLT3 Assay
The FLT3 assay is designed to accurately identify and recruit patients for the trials. AML, the most common type of acute leukemia in adults, has poor survival rates, with a five-year survival rate of less than 30%. Current treatments primarily involve chemotherapy, which can be harsh and not always effective. Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals aims to provide a more benign and effective therapy.
Dr. Vladislav Sandler, CEO and Co-Founder of Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals, expressed enthusiasm about the imminent start of Phase I trials at MD Anderson, stating, "The completion of our FLT3 assay marks a critical milestone in advancing our HEMO-CAR-T product candidate into clinical trials. This Assay will ensure we can accurately identify and recruit the right patients for the trials, bringing us one step closer to providing a potentially life-saving treatment for those battling AML."
About Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals
Hemogenyx Pharmaceuticals plc (LSE:HEMO) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical group focused on developing treatments for cancers and viral diseases. The company is headquartered in London, with US operating subsidiaries located in New York City. Hemogenyx is developing several distinct and complementary product candidates, as well as a platform technology that it uses as an engine for novel product development.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
AML is characterized by the rapid proliferation of abnormal cells in the bone marrow, which interferes with the production of normal blood cells. This can lead to anemia, infections, and bleeding. The development of new therapies like HEMO-CAR-T is crucial to improving outcomes for patients with this aggressive disease.
