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Tesetaxel is a novel oral semi-synthetic taxane and is the leading taxane in clinical development. Taxanes, such as paclitaxel (Taxol®) and docetaxel (Taxotere®), are mainstays of modern anticancer therapy. These drugs are believed to kill cancer cells by disrupting critical proteins that maintain the structure of cancer cells. More recent research suggests that they may also disrupt the blood supply to malignant tumors (i.e., an “antiangiogenic” effect).
Genta's phase 3 trial using Tesetaxel against advanced gastric cancer is scheduled to begin in early 2011. Tesetaxel stabilizes cytoskeletal structures known as microtubules. This mechanism is common to all taxanes, and it induces potent cytotoxic effects in a wide range of tumor cell types.
With tesetaxel, Genta hopes to provide patients with an oral taxane that retains the broad anticancer activity of the IV drugs, while providing substantially improved safety. Tesetaxel is administered orally which obviates the risk of taxane-related infusion reactions and the need for associated premedications. Oral dosing provides a high level of convenience for patients, physicians and nurses, and increases dosing flexibility.
More Info about Tesetaxel
| Drug Type: | Cancer |
| Current FDA Status: | Fast Track |
| Current Drug Phase: | Phase 2 |
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