Brain Cancer

In pre-clinical studies, PRX321 has been shown to selectively and potently kill cancer cells that express interleukin-4 (IL-4) receptor, a cell surface protein that is expressed in high levels in a wide range of cancers including brain cancer. This specificity limits the amount of damage to the surrounding healthy cells and tissues by concentrating its effect on cancerous cells only. A total of three clinical studies have been conducted for this indication and demonstrate significant potential to greatly prolong survival.

What is Brain Cancer?

Many types of cancer begin in the central nervous system’s brain and spinal cord. Within the brain are different types of cells and tissues. Neurons are the most important cells within the brain and are responsible for transmitting the signals responsible for the functions of the brain and spinal cord, such as thought, memory, emotion, speech, and muscle movement. Glial cells support and nourish the neurons but are also the most common type of brain cell that develops into cancer. Most adult brain tumors are glial cell cancers known as gliomas. The most common types of gliomas are Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) and Anaplastic Astrocytoma (AA) which together account for over 75% of all malignant brain tumours.

How Common is Brain Cancer?

Brain cancer is a less common form of cancer but still has a significant mortality rate associated with it. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2006 approximately 18,900 people will be diagnosed with brain cancer and 12,900 will die as a result of the disease in the United States.

How is Brain Cancer Detected?

Blood tests and other screening methods are not currently available to detect brain cancer. Instead brain cancer is usually suspected because of the symptoms it causes including headache, nausea, vomiting, or blurred vision. If symptoms suggest a CNS tumour is present, imaging studies including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computer tomography (CT) scans are used to confirm and locate the tumour.

What are the Current Treatments for Brain Cancer?

Brain tumours may be treated by surgical removal, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Often a combination of treatments is used. Although treatment may prolong survival somewhat, most malignant brain tumors are not curable. As such, a significant unmet need exists for a minimally-invasive and curative solution.