GlaxoSmithKline says it will push pazopanib into late-stage studies for ovarian cancer after a mid-stage trial produced positive data on a key biomarker. Only 35 patients participated in the Phase II trial. Close to a third of them reported a greater than 50 percent reduction in CA-125, a protein used to predict the risk of tumors recurring. Like Avastin, the drug is designed to halt the formation of blood vessels that feed the tumors.
"Many patients with ovarian cancer will have a recurrence of cancer following initial chemotherapy," said Prof. Michael Friedlander. "This study clearly demonstrates that pazopanib is an active, well-tolerated drug for women with recurrent ovarian cancer."
- read GSK's release for more info