C4X makes positive progress with potential cancer programme

(Sharecast News) - C4X Discovery updated on its 'MALT-1' inhibitor programme on Thursday, explaining that the overexpression or over-activation of MALT-1 has been observed in a range of lymphomas and leukemias such as MALT lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.

The AIM-traded firm said that suggested that targeting of MALT-1 could be a "viable therapeutic strategy" for treating haematological cancers.

Building on "promising" in vitro, in vivo and pharmacokinetic data, C4X said it had now successfully demonstrated anti-cancer activity for one of its lead molecules in a preclinical xenograft study.

Following oral dosing at 30 milligrams per kilogram, "significant" tumour growth inhibition was observed.

The result was comparable to data obtained from Johnson & Johnson's clinical compound JNJ-67856633, which is now in a phase one clinical trial.

C4X said its MALT-1 inhibitor programme had thus now advanced into the preclinical candidate selection phase.

"Using our NMR-based 'shapes in solution' technology, Conformetrix, led to the generation of a number of structurally-distinct series, now in lead optimisation," said chief scientific officer Nick Ray.

"Showing activity comparable to the industry's lead clinical compound with our first compound in this key xenograft model, coupled with the range of improved compounds following behind, gives us confidence in nominating candidate-quality molecules within the next six months."

Dr Ray said C4X had a "reputation" for producing high-quality small molecule candidates, as seen in its recent out-licensing agreement with AstraZeneca worth up to $401m.

"MALT-1 is a highly desirable target for an oral therapeutic and this study is a key trigger to initiate early-stage conversations with potential partners in the pharmaceutical industry in order to maximise the value of this programme."

At 1503 GMT, shares in C4X Discovery Holdings were up 2.56% at 17.05p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.