Bionomics' BNC105 improves survival in tumour model

Bionomics’ (ASX:BNO) anticancer candidate BNC105 showed prolonged antitumour effects when combined with other cancer drugs in animal models for renal and breast tumours.

A report detailing a preclinical study involving the candidate has been published in Cancer Biology & Therapy.

BNC105 was found to selectively induce hypoxia in tumours. In this state, tumours increase expression of growth factors that stimulate the formation of new blood vessels and protein synthesis.

The study in animal renal and breast tumour models involved evaluating the use of BNC105 in combination with Avastin, Votrient or Afinitor. Tumour-bearing animals survived longer with the combination therapy than when administered these drugs alone.

“These discoveries provide the scientific rationale for clinical trials combining BNC105 with Avastin, Votrient and Afinitor,” Bionomics CEO Dr Deborah Rathjen commented. “Bionomics is actively exploring partnering opportunities to advance further clinical trials combining BNC105 with these targeted agents.”

Bionomics last month released data from a phase II trial of BNC105 in combination with Afinitor in metastatic renal cancer.

Results show that 60% of patients with a signature of four blood biomarkers were progression-free at six months, compared to just 5% for patients lacking the signature.

Bionomics (ASX:BNO) shares were trading 2.54% lower at $0.575 as of around 2.30 pm on Tuesday.