Lung Cancer

Pre-clinical studies show that PRX321 can selectively and potently destroy cancer cells that express IL-4, a cell surface receptor that is expressed in high levels in a wide range of cancers including lung cancer. This specificity limits the amount of damage to the surrounding healthy cells and tissues concentrating its effect on cancerous cells only. PRX321 is expected to offer a less invasive option with a greater therapeutic effect than current treatments.

What is Lung Cancer?

The lungs are 2 sponge-like organs found in the chest. The right lung is composed of 3 sections, or lobes, while the left is composed of only 2 lobes because of the room the heart takes up. Lung cancer usually begins in the lining of the bronchi which are tubes that bring air down into the lungs, although they can start in other parts of the lungs as well. The most common type of lung cancer is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) which accounts for almost 90% of malignant lung tumours.

How Common is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is the single largest cause of cancer death in North America accounting for 29% of all cancer deaths. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 174,500 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2006 and over 162,500 will die from the disease.

How is Lung Cancer Detected?

Because most people with early lung cancer do not have any symptoms, only a small number of lung cancers are found at an early stage. Symptoms usually do not appear until the cancer has spread and include persistent cough, chest pain, hoarseness, bloody or rust-colored sputum, and shortness of breath. Chest x-rays and sputum tests are used to confirm a diagnosis.

What are the Current Treatments for Lung Cancer?

Current treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or a combination of individual treatments. Unfortunately, despite the range of treatment options available, the 5-year survival rate for lung cancer is only around 15% demonstrating a strong need for new, innovative approaches that demonstrate increased efficacy and survival with limited side effects.