Launch Sharpens Focus on Therapies in Oncology

Iceni Pharmaceuticals has launched as a new company, focusing on developing repurposed and reformulated cancer therapies. Its lead product Cilcane® (generic name cilengitide) is being repurposed as a first-in-class treatment for multiple myeloma; pre-clinical studies have shown that Cilcane® is effective as a combination therapy when given with proteasome inhibitors such as bortezomib and that this approach may also be applicable to breast and other cancers, said the company.  Iceni has a broad intellectual property portfolio covering the formulation and methods of use of Cilcane®. Cilengitide was formerly in late-stage clinical trials in glioblastoma with Merck Serono.

 The company is planning a Phase II safety/efficacy trial of Cilcane® starting in 2017 aimed at relapsed refractory patients who have already received one prior therapy of proteasome inhibitor. The Company has also appointed several leading authorities on cilengitide and multiple myeloma to its scientific advisory board.

 Dr John March, CEO at Iceni Pharmaceuticals, commented: “We are excited by the prospect of repurposing cilengitide as a novel combination therapy for the treatment of multiple myeloma and building on its established safety profile to improve the clinical outcome and quality of life of patients. Our prestigious team of world-renowned scientific advisors are testament to the belief in the product and its potential.”