| Project title | A Phase 1 and Biodistribution Study of KB004 (An Anti-EphA3 Antibody) in Patients With Glioblastoma |
|---|---|
Grant Amount | $500,000 |
Institution | La Trobe University |
Investigator Team | Principal investigators A/Prof. Hui Gan, Prof. Andrew Scott and A/Prof. Sze Ting Lee, with associate investigators Dr. Po Inglis and Dr. Zarnie Lwin |
Grant Type | 2014 Clinical Trial |
Years | 2014 – 2020 |
This clinical trial aims to test a promising new drug for patients with glioblastoma. The drug tested in this clinical trial is an antibody called KB004. This drug targets EphA3, which is highly expressed in GBM.
The translational and scientific information gained through this clinical trial will help progress this drug into more advanced testing, either as a single agent or in combination therapy. Given the unique properties of this drug, it could be incorporated into antibody drug conjugates, which are currently proving very encouraging as treatments for brain tumours.
“Establishment and conduct of this trial would not have been possible without the generous support of Cure Brain Cancer Foundation funding.”
A/Prof. Hui Gan
Progress
GBM is the most frequent and lethal primary brain cancer. To date this study has demonstrated the target of KB004, EphA3, is found in GBM cells in the brain using sensitive imaging techniques. We have safely administered KB004 to 8 patients, treatment was well tolerated. At the doses tested, there has been some encouraging signs of tumour stabilisation and effects on the blood supply of tumours. We are currently determining the optimal dose and the benefits seen at that dose level. These early findings suggest that KB004 may have utility as a monotherapy at higher doses or combination therapy with other anticancer agents. The universal but highly specific nature of the targeting with KB004 also has great potential for use in other drug delivery methods like antibody drug conjugates.