Immunophotonics Completes Treatment Phase in Advanced Solid Tumor Trial with IP-001
Immunophotonics Achieves Milestone in Advanced Solid Tumor Treatment
Immunophotonics, Inc., a groundbreaking biotech firm focused on developing innovative immunostimulatory drugs, proudly announced the completion of treatments for all participants in its INJECTABL-1 Phase 1b/2a clinical trial targeting advanced solid tumors. This trial marked a significant milestone for the company as it aims to improve the effectiveness of conventional tumor destruction techniques.
The INJECTABL-1 trial involved 41 patients and specifically targeted three distinct types of cancer: colorectal cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and soft tissue sarcoma. Conducted across multiple countries including France, Germany, Switzerland, the UK, and the USA, the trial was designed to explore the immune-mediated anti-cancer effects of IP-001 that follows tumor ablation, a process widely accepted in medical practice for its ability to remove tumor cells.
Tumor ablation, though effective in destroying targeted lesions, often fails to initiate a robust immune response that is vital in preventing the recurrence of cancer. IP-001, a proprietary glycan polymer developed by Immunophotonics, is administered through injection directly into the ablation zones. The innovative drug retains tumor debris and antigens, effectively activating the body’s immune system to reinforce the immune response. By enabling systemic surveillance, IP-001 enhances the immune system's ability to identify and eradicate tumor cells that may have escaped treatment, a significant step in cancer recovery.
Prof. Dr. Markus Jörger, the Principal Investigator at the Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen Clinic for Medical Oncology and Hematology, expressed pride in the completion of patient treatments, highlighting the significance of this achievement in potentially providing new therapeutic options for patients suffering from advanced solid tumors.
Immunophotonics co-founder and CEO, Lu Alleruzzo, emphasized the company's commitment to Leading Interventional Immuno-Oncology®, with a focus on reducing tumor recurrence after conventional local ablation therapies: "With the completion of our INJECTABL-1 trial, we will analyze collected data to evaluate how IP-001 can potentially enhance the effects of ablation therapy. Early indicators have been promising, and we are expanding our clinical collaborations to further examine this novel treatment's efficacy.”
Understanding IP-001
IP-001 serves as a powerful immune stimulant, designed to mobilize and activate various components of the immune system. Its mechanism is not only intended to prolong the availability of tumor antigens but also to facilitate the recruitment of innate immune cells, which play a crucial role in forming immune responses against cancer. Moreover, it enhances the ability of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to uptake tumor antigens effectively, consequently leading to adaptive immune responses that target and destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
A New Era for Immunophotonics
With its headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, and a European location in Bern, Switzerland, Immunophotonics is paving the way for advancements in cancer treatment. The company’s approach combines established procedures like ablation with their patented immunoadjuvant, aiming to evoke an anti-cancer immune response capable of eradicating not only the tumor but also micrometastases that linger post-treatment. The potential success in this area could mark a turning point for patients looking for effective solutions in combating solid tumors. The INJECTABL-1 trial signifies just the beginning as the company aims to gather more data and refine its treatment modalities.
The enthusiasm surrounding the INJECTABL-1 trial underlines the commitment and strategic vision of Immunophotonics to lead in cancer immuno-therapy innovations. As they continue to assess the outcomes of IP-001, the hope grows for a new chapter in cancer treatment that offers better results and improved patient survival rates.