New Cancer Drug Offers 2x Life Expectancy
Pharmaceutical International has today learnt of a newly-developed drug which is designed to destroy cancerous cells. In comparison to the current generation of cancer treatments, this new product generates only minimal side effects. The patients now taking it can expect to live twice as long - a life extension which scientists think may be even greater further down the line.
The drug is known as STA-4783, and is being developed by Synta Pharmaceuticals. A specialist in the field of cancer at the firm - Dr Tony Williams - described it to the Daily Express as "...the most exciting cancer treatment I've seen in 10 years".
STA-4783 works by generating additional free radicals within the human body, over its usual concentration. While healthy cells are able to manage these free radicals, cancerous cells react by self-destroying. The principle behind STA-4783's operation is explained in more detail by Mr Williams himself:
"Giving this drug to cancer cells pushes them over the critical threshold. It's like speeding up a banged-up car being driven round at 95 mph. After a while the engine blows. Normal cells are like a well maintained quality car driven within the speed limit which can easily handle something which throws it off course. The older generations of cancer drugs were so toxic some probably did as much damage as good. These drugs are much safer."
"This is a great step forward and will give new hope to patients", he concluded.
STA-4783 is the first drug in which increased life expectancy among cancer patients with advanced melanomas has been observed. In its initial trial, a percentage of the 81 participating patients were administered the new drug. They were recorded as surviving two times longer than their counterparts taking traditional medication.
Potential applications for STA-4783 could now include cases of leukaemia and ovarian cancer, say the scientists.
The initial trial will be followed by more later on in 2008. 150 prominent cancer centres situated globally will be involved in these trials, including 11 British sites. Should more positive news present itself, STA-4783 could make its market debut by 2010.
Source - Pharmaceutical International's Research and Development Analyst
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