Bionomics begins safety program for cancer antibody

Bionomics (ASX:BNO) has commenced pharmacological and toxicological research to support an eventual IND application for anticancer candidate BNC101.

“The initiation of this safety program is a major milestone in the drug development process of BNC101,” Bionomics CEO Dr Deborah Rathjen said.

“The fact that Bionomics achieved this milestone less than a year from the acquisition of this asset is a demonstration of our commitment to being a leader in the cancer stem cell therapeutic space.”

Bionomics acquired the BNC101 technology last year with the all-scrip US$10 million ($10.8 million) purchase of US-based Eclipse Therapeutics.

BNC101 is a humanised monoclonal antibody targeting cancer stem cell receptor LGR5. The antibody has demonstrated activity against stem cells from colorectal cancer patients in laboratory trials.

Bionomics in April commenced manufacturing activities for BNC101, in preparation for clinical trials planned for next year.

Bionomics vice president of US operations and cancer biology Dr Peter Chu last week presented details of the BNC101 program at the European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute (ECSCRI) Targeting Cancer Conference in Wales.

The presentation included pre-clinical data into BNC101’s activity against LGR5 and its ability to prevent tumour regrowth in animal studies.

Bionomics shares were trading unchanged at $0.40 as of around 1 pm on Monday.