Groundbreaking Clinical Trial Announced

Jul 10, 2008

The University of Kansas Cancer Center has moved one step closer to its goal of becoming the nation's leading producer of anti-cancer drugs.

On June 26, leaders from the KU Cancer Center, the University of Kansas Medical Center, and the University of Kansas Hospital gathered to announce the opening of a Phase 1 clinical trial using a new ovarian cancer drug developed by KU researchers. The new drug, Nanotax, aims to treat cancer while avoiding the negative side effects associated with past treatments.

“This is an incredible milestone in our journey toward a cancer-free Kansas, and it is truly a remarkable reflection on the important work of so many at KU,” said Barbara Atkinson, MD, executive vice chancellor of the KU Medical Center. “This project saw crucial contributions from many people in many different parts of our research community. It provides further encouragement as we continue our effort to fight cancer.”

Nanotax is a reformulation of another commonly used chemotherapy drug, Paclitaxel, whose negative side effects can often add to the difficulty already experienced by cancer patients. The Nanotax researchers were able to remove the solvent Paclitaxel is mixed with, which was the source of the negative side effects.

“Paclitaxel is an effective drug, but its side effects are incredibly difficult for patients,” said Roy Jensen, MD, director of the KU Cancer Center. “We believe Nanotax will be a less toxic treatment because of the removal of those side effects.”

The existing drug was broken into nanoparticle form and reformulated to be mixed with water, which allows it to be administered in the abdomen instead of intravenously. The process was developed by Bala Subramaniam, PhD, distinguished professor of chemical and petroleum engineering, Valentino Stella, PhD, distinguished professor of pharmaceutical chemistry, and Roger Rajewski, PhD, director of the Biotechnology, Innovation, and Optimization Center at KU.

The discovery, development, and clinical trial of Nanotax satisfy key criteria which must be met in order to apply for designation by the National Cancer Institute as a Comprehensive Cancer Institute.

“Achieving NCI designation is a top priority for KU, and this clinical trial means we are moving closer to that goal,” Dr. Atkinson said. “Progress like this allows us to ensure that all Kansans are receiving the best cancer care, and that they can find that care in their own communities.”

Hear Dr. Roy Jensen and Dr. Karen Kelly discuss the new development: