First patient dose as trial of Bicycle Therapeutics’ anti-tumour molecule steps up

The first patient has been dosed in the latest phase of a trial involving a Bicycle Therapeutics molecule that could be used to tackle a number of cancers.

Its second-generation Bicycle toxin conjugate BT5528 targets EphA2 - a receptor tyrosine kinase that is highly produced in tumours. An expansion of the Phase I/11 trial is now under way.

CEO Dr Kevin Lee said: “We believe EphA2 is an attractive target for cytotoxin delivery and BT5528 has the potential to overcome the significant safety concerns seen with an antibody drug conjugate approach to targeting EphA2.

“We are pleased with the molecule’s emerging safety profile and early signs of anti-tumour activity and look forward to providing additional data from the completed part A portion of the Phase I/II trial next quarter.”

The molecule could be of benefit in tackling urothelial and ovarian cancers, and will also be tested against other solid tumours, including non-small cell lung cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, head and neck and oesophageal cancer.

Bicycle Therapeutics recently opened its new headquarters at Granta Park.