There are very limited options currently available for the treatment of HPV(-) head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC), the sixth leading cause of cancer in the United States and worldwide. HNSCC, like most forms of cancer, is dependent on angiogenesis, the growth of blood vessels. We have developed a mimetic multimodal peptide that inhibits growth of tumor angiogenesis and directly inhibits tumor cell adhesion and migration. Tumors treated with this multimodal peptide are less likely to develop resistance to therapy because it inhibits signals from a broad range of tumor-secreted factors. In this project we will create a novel targeted nanoparticle delivery vehicle for this peptide. The nanoparticle-encapsulated peptide will be administered systemically and will accumulate in the tumor and its vasculature in order to enhance both efficacy and safety. Successful completion of the project will result in the creation of a powerful, new therapeutic for the treatment of HNSCC and also help a startup biotechnology company reach a critical milestone.

Public Health Relevance

This project is to design and evaluate a new targeted nanoparticle delivery system that delivers a novel peptide to the tumor site to treat head and neck squamous cell cancer. This peptide will be effective for inhibiting head and neck squamous cell cancer growth through multimodal anti- angiogenic and anti-tumor mechanisms.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Cooperative Agreements - Phase I (U43)
Project #
1U43CA179506-01
Application #
8580801
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZCA1)
Program Officer
Kurtz, Andrew J
Project Start
2014-07-01
Project End
2015-03-31
Budget Start
2014-07-01
Budget End
2015-03-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2014
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Asclepix Therapeutics, LLC
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Lutherville
State
MD
Country
United States
Zip Code
21093