Aiming to stop cancer before it starts
Atossa Genetics Inc (O:ATOS) is developing afimoxifene gel for atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), a condition affecting about 100,000 new US patients each year, and which leads to breast cancer within five years in 5-11% of cases (Coopey et al. 2011). A Phase II trial for intraductal fulvestrant should also start by YE15.
Advancing afimoxifene gel for ADH
ADH is the abnormal increase in the number of cells within the ducts of the breast, and is generally treated with surgery. Patients can also take selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) drugs, such as tamoxifen or raloxifene (Evista) orally for five years, to reduce the risk of developing cancer. However, the risks of adverse events (AEs), including blood clots and stroke, limit usage of these drugs to less than 1% of eligible patients (Waters et al. 2012). Atossa is developing a topical gel formulation of afimoxifene, the active metabolite of tamoxifen, for ADH. Licensed from Besins Healthcare, afimoxifene gel should have a lower risk of systemic AEs than oral SERMs, and may have wider appeal for cancer prevention.
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