Avalon initiates phase II trial of AVN944 in pancreatic cancer

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Oncology NEWS InternationalOncology NEWS International Vol 16 No 8
Volume 16
Issue 8

Avalon initiates phase II trial of AVN944 in pancreatic cancer

GERMANTOWN, Maryland—Avalon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has initiated a phase II clinical trial of AVN944 in combination with gemcitabine (Gemzar) in patients with newly diagnosed pancreatic cancer. After a dose-escalation phase, approximately 110 to 120 patients will be enrolled in an efficacy and safety phase. AVN944 is an oral small molecule agent that inhibits inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), an enzyme that is critical for cells to be able to synthesize guanosine triphosphate (GTP), a molecule required for DNA synthesis and cellular signaling.

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Avoiding copay shock
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Superselective chemo strategies for HCC
'Value meal dosing' of lapatinib is proposed
AMA approves CPT code for Axxent electronic brachytherapy
Zevalin/R after CHOP-R doubles CRs in follicular NHL
Active surveillance with delayed treatment appears to be a safe option for younger men with low-risk prostate cancer
RT plus local paclitaxel gel promising in esophageal ca
GeneSearch BLN Assay gets FDA approval for node assessment during surgery
TH vs TCH in metastatic breast cancer: 'Take your pick'
Sunitinib prolongs PFS in RCC: update
Diagnostic Dilemma: GI Disease
ACS studies link patients' insurance status to cancer outcomes
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US consumers are shielded from the cost of healthcare

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