Oncopeptides publishes article in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
A new article on the Phamacokinetics and metabolism of melflufen, marketed in Europe as Pepaxti, in patients with Relapsed Refractory Multiple Myeloma was recently published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, a journal designed to provide physicians, pharmacists, scientists and drug developers a forum to present research in all aspects of Clinical Pharmacology.
The article concludes that melflufen administration differs from melphalan administration by a more rapid distribution into cells which in conjunction with a rapid intracellular metabolism allows for higher peak concentrations of alkylating agents, and by a more extensive distribution of melphalan to peripheral tissues.
Read the full article here (behind paywall)
Investor Q&A
What is melflufen?
Melflufen, branded in Europe as Pepaxti, is based on Oncopeptides’ platform for Peptide Drug Conjugate (PDC). The PDC based compounds are composed to enable efficient distribution, a wide therapeutic window, and an optimized benefit risk profile. The PDCs are designed around two components: a peptide carrier and a cytotoxic payload. The PDCs are lipophilic, meaning they dissolve easily in fat, which allows a rapid diffusion into the cells.
The peptide carrier utilizes the altered metabolism of cancer cells to hydrolyze PDC into active hydrophilic metabolites, which lead to an enrichment in cancer cells.
Melflufen is the first PDC with an alkylating payload. The drug utilizes peptidases and esterases that are overexpressed in multiple myeloma cells, to release a toxic payload inside cells, damage DNA and kill cancer cells.
Read more about Oncopeptides’ technology platforms here.
What are medical publications?
Medical publications refer to written documents that present research findings, case studies, reviews, and other scientific information in the field of medicine. They are often published in scientific journals after undergoing a rigorous peer-review process.
Why are they important for a healthcare company such as Oncopeptides?
Medical publications help to establish credibility, promote transparency, and provide valuable evidence for the efficacy and safety of treatments or interventions. By sharing research findings and clinical experiences, companies can contribute to the broader medical knowledge base, influencing patient care and industry standards.
Do these publications affect product development?
The data from research and clinical trials, when published, can provide insights into the development of new drugs or new indications for existing ones. They can also guide the direction of future research projects.
How do healthcare professionals use these publications?
Healthcare professionals rely on medical publications to stay updated on the latest research, innovative techniques, and best practices. This knowledge helps them make informed decisions about patient care and treatment choices.
Can the general public access these publications?
In the case of the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, its’ content is a mix of paid, free and so called open source, meaning the public can access it without cost. While many medical journals require subscriptions, there are many open-access journals and resources where research is freely available.
The article in question is behind a paywall.
Why is the peer-review process in medical publications crucial?
Peer review ensures that the research presented in the publication is of high quality, scientifically sound, and free from biases. Experts in the field evaluate the research, which helps maintain the credibility and trustworthiness of the findings.
How do medical publications benefit patients?
By driving advancements in medical science, these publications play a role in the development of newer, safer, and more effective treatments. When healthcare companies share their findings, it speeds up the dissemination of crucial information, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Where can I find more information?
You can read the full article here. For additional information, reach out to David Augustsson, Director of Corporate Affairs, david.augustsson@oncopeptides.com