Penetrium targets the tumor microenvironment, breaking down barriers created by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Preclinical studies showed that Penetrium, when combined with gemcitabine at half the standard dose, delivered equivalent anticancer efficacy, achieving a tumor suppression rate of 92%. Side effects and toxicity were reduced by more than half compared to gemcitabine alone. The drug’s safety has been confirmed through a 13-week long-term toxicity study and administration to over 300 patients, with combination therapy doses at only 1/20th of the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL). Penetrium also demonstrated effectiveness in inhibiting both primary tumors and metastases.
Pancreatic cancer is among the most formidable malignancies, with most patients diagnosed at stages where surgery is no longer viable. Delayed treatment significantly affects survival outcomes. The current standard treatment, gemcitabine, extends overall survival by an average of six months and progression-free survival by two to three months. With minimal advancements in new therapies over the past decade, Penetrium’s clinical trials mark a significant development.
Hyundai Bioscience intends to prioritize Penetrium’s combination therapy trials over its ongoing Polytaxel studies, citing the potential for fast-track regulatory approval. The company views this as a critical step to address unmet needs in pancreatic cancer care.
Kim Kuk Ju, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
