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European first for new immunotherapy lung cancer trial in Dundee
30th September 2024
The University of Dundee and NHS Tayside is the first hospital site in Europe to open a trial of a new investigational immunotherapy for an aggressive form of lung cancer
The early-stage Phase 2 clinical trial (NCT06449209), being delivered at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, will investigate a new dual targeting antibody treatment candidate in small cell lung cancer, co-developed by BioNTech SE and Biotheus Inc.
The investigational therapy targets the tumour blood supply and aims to engage the patient’s own immune system to eliminate the cancer.
Russell Petty, Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of Dundee and Director of Research and Development at NHS Tayside said: "I am delighted that we are able to offer this clinical trial to lung cancer patients in Tayside.
"The clinical trial uses an innovative approach that aims to build on successes we have already achieved with cancer immunotherapies. To be the first site to open in Europe highlights our leading role in advancing cancer treatment, offering new hope for patients fighting one of the most challenging cancers we face."
Lung cancer is the most common cancer in Scotland with around 5,500 cases diagnosed each year. The number of new cases is predicted to increase by 29% for women and 12% for men by 2027. It is also the most common cause of cancer death in Scotland. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) gets its name from how the cancer looks under a microscope. It makes up about 1 in 7 lung cancers (about 15%).
Immunotherapy is an exciting development in the fight against cancer. It uses the body’s own natural defences to attack the disease. This clinical trial is expected to enrol approximately 110 patients globally with sites initially in the United Kingdom and the Unites States, followed by further sites globally.
Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, Chief Scientist (Health) at Scottish Government said: "We are fortunate to have exceptional infrastructure and world-class talent that position us perfectly to lead in vital areas of cancer research.
"We know lung cancer is a major cause of death in Scotland, and we are committed to bringing together expertise from the NHS, academia and industry to increase and accelerate clinical trials and provide the latest treatment options for our patients.
"I’m very grateful for the hard work of the Tayside team and BioNTech in expediting this trial as part of our ambitions to increase clinical trial opportunities."
