ETC-206 is a potential anti-cancer drug which may revolutionize the cancer treatment.
AUM Biosciences (AUM), a Singapore based oncology-focused biotechnology firm, has recently licensed its first novel and highly selective anti-cancer drug called ETC-206, from A*STAR’s Experimental Therapeutics Centre (ETC). The Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR) is Singapore’s lead public sector agency that spearheads economic oriented research to advance scientific discovery and develop innovative technology.
Reportedly, AUM has licensed the global rights to develop, commercialize and manufacture ETC-206 in all indications. The novel cancer solution, ETC-206 was discovered and developed through a partnership between A*STAR ‘s Experimental Therapeutics Centre (ETC) and Duke NUS Medical School. It advanced into first-in-man trials in December 2016 and initial clinical studies suggest that ETC-206 is highly tolerated and possibly applicable as a therapy across a range of liquid and solid tumor types.
ETC strives to support biotech ecosystem in Singapore
Damian O’Connell, CEO of A*STAR’s Experimental Therapeutics Centre, said, “ETC-206 is a prime example of how A*STAR has been able to translate R&D into positive outcomes to create economic growth and enhance lives for Singaporeans. We look forward to working closely with more Singapore based enterprises such as AUM Biosciences as we continue to leverage our drug discovery and development capabilities to support the growth of the local biotech ecosystem in Singapore.”
The advanced drug is highly effective than traditional cancer therapies
The drug promises a more targeted approach by inhibiting the Mnk enzyme in cancer cells, which is a key player in promoting cancer growth when activated. The effective drug could lower mortality rates for cancer and improve quality of life for cancer patients compared to traditional chemotherapy, which kills cells in a less specific fashion and affects more than just the cancer cells.
Vishal Doshi, CEO, AUM, stated, “Due to low efficacy and steep costs associated with many cancer treatments, the demand for more precise anti-cancer treatments has become imperative. AUM’s small molecule and biomarker driven approach allows us to implement innovative trial designs enabling ‘multiple shots on goal’, in cancer treatment.”
ETC-206: First of its kind
ETC-206 is the first in AUM’s pipeline of novel targeted therapies with the potential to be developed both independently and in combination with other therapies. The drug’s ability to isolate and target only cancerous cells promises a breakthrough opportunity globally.
