ASA404 pivotal trial in lung cancer begins

BASEL-Novartis’ ASA404 has entered a phase III lung cancer trial following positive outcomes of a phase II study. ASA404 is a small-molecule tumor-vascular disrupting agent that selectively causes the collapse of existing tumor blood supply leading to extensive tumor cell death. Its action is distinct from that of angiogenesis inhibitors, which inhibit the formation of new tumor blood vessels.

The ATTRACT-1 trial will include 1,200 patients with previously untreated locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC, randomized to carboplatin/paclitaxel plus either ASA404 or placebo.