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The biologic mechanism of tissue ablation with Tookad soluble vascular targeted photodynamic therapy (TS-VTP) is well suited for treating tumors in sensitive organs such as the human genitourinary tract. Preclinical collaborative studies conducted at the Weizmann Institute and Memorial Sloan Kettering have provided insight for the development of TS-VTP as a treatment modality for prostate, kidney and urothelial cancers that are now being tested in prospective clinical trials.
MSK trial 17-070 is a Phase 2b study of the efficacy of TS-VTP for the treatment of intermediate risk, unilateral prostate cancer. Men with suitable cancers are being treated with VTP therapy by interstitial technique through fiberoptic diffusers placed into the prostate gland under ultrasound guidance in order to illuminate a volume of targeted tissue based on tumor localization from prior biopsy. Tissue effects, tolerability and serum biomarkers of response are being monitored as important secondary endpoints.
MSK protocol 18-140 is a Phase 1 clinical trial investigating the safety and tolerability of TS-VTP for the treatment of urothelial cancer involving the bladder and upper urinary tract. In this study, patients with transitional cell carcinoma found in the bladder, ureter or renal pelvis of the kidney are treated by endoluminal technique with fiberoptic diffusers placed in proximity to the tumors to achieve tumor ablative effects. The identification of adverse events is the primary goal of the study however tissue effects, tolerability and urinary biomarkers of response are also being monitored.
Preliminary findings from both of these studies as well as other clinical trials in TS-VTP treatment will be presented.
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