Topical MEK Inhibitor, NFX-179, Prevents Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Pre-Clinical Model

Excerpt from the Press Release:

WAYNE, Pa., May 4, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — In research to be shared during a plenary talk at the Society for Investigative Dermatology’s 2021 Virtual Meeting, data from investigators at the Tsai Lab at Moffitt Cancer Center, Sarin Lab at the Stanford University School of Medicine and NFlection Therapeutics demonstrate positive efficacy in preclinical models for the use of a topical gel — NFX-179 — to prevent cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC).

In a UV-induced mouse model of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, topical application of NFX-179 gel reduced the formation of new cSCCs by an average of 92% at doses of 0.5% and greater, at 28 days. No systemic or skin toxicities were observed. The researchers also conducted a split-back randomized controlled study in 5 mice per group. NFX-179 0.5% gel was applied to half of the back, and vehicle was applied to the other half of each of the UV-irradiated mice. Near-complete suppression of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma was observed only in the drug-treated area, demonstrating the targeted and local effect of the drug candidate. Furthermore, the team found that NFX-179 inhibits the growth of human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma cell lines in a dose-dependent manner and that topical NFX-179 application penetrates human skin and inhibits ERK signaling in human cSCC explants.

Click the button below to read the entire Press Release:

Continue Reading The Press Release