“We are delighted with the FDA’s decision to grant orphan drug designation to OXC-101 for AML. This is a significant milestone and underscores the significant unmet need for novel medicines and the unique approach by OXC-101. We believe OXC-101 holds potential to greatly improve treatment for patients who suffer from AML”, says Ulrika Warpman Berglund, Oxcia’s CEO. “We are presently preparing an application for ODD also with EMA (European Medicines Agency). Early engagement with the FDA and EMA is pivotal.”   

OXC-101

OXC-101 is Oxcia’s lead clinical candidate, a first-in class mitotic MTH1 inhibitor with a unique dual mechanism of action. In short, OXC-101, fights cancer by taking advantage of one of the Achilles heels of cancer cells – the high endogenous oxidative stress and DNA damage. In preclinical studies, OXC-101 significantly prolongs survival and reduces tumor growth in AML disease models.

Clinical Phase 1 data in advanced hematological cancer patients is reassuring. Oxcia is now performing an expansion trial, a phase 1/2 study in a subpopulation (relapsed/recurrent AML), in combination with one of the standard treatments, idarubicin. The aim is to confirm the preliminary efficacy previously shown in AML to support further clinical development in a pivotal phase 2 trial that can be the base for regulatory fast-track approval.

Adding clinical sites

Oxcia AB was in the beginning of 2023 awarded a grant of SEK 3 million by Swelife and Medtech4Health for this study. To ensure the recruitment of patients with this rare AML disease in a cost- and time-efficient manner, the company is now adding additional clinical sites. Rigshospitalet in Denmark will be enrolled shortly. In addition, Bulgaria and Serbia will be added during 2025.

“In the study we are also integrating precision medicine screening to help identify responders/non-responders. Precision medicine screening is a novel way of personalizing treatment for patients and thus identifying the best treatment strategy for individuals reducing unsuccessful treatments with unnecessary suffering and lack of effect,” states the company in a press release.