(An item published at 0837 BST misstated the name of the compound ADXS-HPV. The corrected version follows.)
LONDON (Alliance News) - AstraZeneca PLC said Tuesday its research and development arm MedImmune has teamed up with US biotechnology company Advaxis Inc for a clinical trial combining MedImmune's MEDI4736 compound with Advaxis' ADXS-HPV.
The two treatments are both immunotherapies, which use the body's immune system to treat cancer, the company said.
MEDI4736 is an anti-PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor which blocks a signal that helps tumours avoid detection by the immune system. ADXS-HPV, for the treatment of human papillomavirus associated cervical cancer and head and neck cancer, can enhance the ability of immune cells to combat a tumour.
AstraZeneca said that preclinical evidence suggests a combined treatment could enhance overall anti-tumour response.
Under a clinical trial collaboration agreement, the two companies will evaluate the combined treatment for human papillomavirus associated cervical cancer and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. A Phase I trial will establish a recommended does regimen, and a Phase II trial will assess safety and efficacy.
Advaxis will fund and conduct the study.
AstraZeneca shares closed up 0.8% at 4,426.00 pence Tuesday.
By Hana Stewart-Smith; hanassmith@alliancenews.com; @HanaSSAllNews
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