Novel treatment strategy for aggressive prostate cancer
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Umeå Biotech Incubator AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 000 000 |
| Project duration | June 2018 - May 2019 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
We have assessed our antibody’s potential to reach the market as new treatment option for patients with prostate cancer from a product and business development perspective. We have verified our activity plan, extended the scope of the project to include additional cancer indications, and prepared a plan for financing. The completed activities have resulted in an increased value of the project, lowered the associated risks and increased the chances that the drug development will be successful.
Expected results and effects
We have made great improvements on product and business development. We have further characterized our antibody both in vitro and in vivo, prepared a drug development plan and initiated dialogues with contract manufacturing organizations. We have completed target engagement studies using CETSA® that show that the antibody interacts with its target in a physiologically relevant environment in tumor material from prostate cancer patients. The studies support the previously generated results in model systems and indicate that the antibody may be a valid treatment option for humans.
Planned approach and implementation
The activities have been successfully completed by the partners Umeå Biotech Incubator, Umeå University, and Region Västerbotten. In addition, a number of external parties have contributed with their expertise by providing specific services or by participating in strategic discussions. Changes in the project have been communicated to the affected parties. An open mind, regular meetings and successful project management has allowed the project to progress according to the plan and within budget.