Lantern Pharma's LP-184, a next-generation alkylating agent, has received three Rare Pediatric Disease Designations (RPDD) from the FDA for the potential treatment of malignant rhabdoid tumors (MRT), rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), and hepatoblastoma. These designations underscore the drug's promise in addressing ultra-rare pediatric cancers with significant unmet needs.
The FDA's decision was supported by preclinical data demonstrating tumor regression and prolonged event-free survival in specialized models. These models were developed as part of the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program, an initiative supported by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to identify novel therapies for childhood cancers.
LP-184 had previously received RPDD for atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (ATRT) and orphan drug designation for glioblastoma multiforme and malignant gliomas in August 2021.
Harnessing AI for Pediatric Cancer
Panna Sharma, CEO and President of Lantern Pharma, emphasized the company's commitment to using artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven approaches to accelerate cancer drug development. "Our recent breakthrough in identifying three additional, high-potential indications for LP-184 in pediatric cancers exemplifies this progress," Sharma stated. "We believe that 'AI for good' should address both blockbuster opportunities as well as rare, often overlooked pediatric cases."
LP-184 Mechanism and Clinical Development
LP-184 is a small molecule drug candidate that leverages synthetic lethality to preferentially damage DNA in tumor cells that overexpress select biomarkers or display DNA damage repair deficiencies. Preclinical studies have demonstrated antitumor activity in various solid tumors, including pancreatic cancer, bladder cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, glioblastoma, brain metastases, and ATRT. The drug may also show enhanced efficacy when combined with FDA-approved therapies like spironolactone, PARP inhibitors, and radiation therapy.
Currently, LP-184 is being evaluated in a phase 1 trial (NCT05933265) involving adult patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors who have relapsed or are refractory to standard therapies. The trial aims to determine the maximum tolerated dose and recommended phase 2 dose of LP-184.
Trial Design and Objectives
The ongoing phase 1 trial is a single-arm, multicenter, dose-escalation study enrolling patients with histologically confirmed advanced solid tumors. Patients receive intravenous infusions of LP-184 on days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle for at least two cycles. The primary objective is to assess the safety and tolerability of escalating doses of LP-184.
Potential for Priority Review Voucher
A key benefit of obtaining an RPDD is the potential to receive a priority review voucher (PRV) upon FDA approval. These vouchers can expedite the review process for future New Drug Applications (NDAs) or Biologic License Applications (BLAs), potentially reducing the standard review time from ten months to six. These vouchers can be used by the sponsor or sold to other companies and have recently sold for over $100 million.
