Investment summary

Agennix is developing talactoferrin for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and potentially other cancers. There are two Phase III trials underway in NSCLC. The most advanced is FORTIS-M in third-line+ NSCLC, data from which are due July/August. In a Phase II study (n=100) in second-line+ NSCLC, patients receiving talactoferrin had a median overall survival of 6.1 months vs 3.7 months for those on placebo. Agennix has signed manufacturing agreements with Lonza and DSM for the potential commercial launch. Talactoferrin was also being developed for severe sepsis, but a Phase II trial was terminated and further development in this indication is unlikely. There is no read across from this study to FORTIS-M as sepsis and cancer are very different indications. Agennix has enough cash to operate into Q113.

Last updated on 23/04/2012

Industry outlook

Efficacious oncology products can enjoy premium pricing and be sold by relatively small sales forces, but there is significant competition. Talactoferrin has the potential to become complementary to the current treatments in oncology.

Last updated on 23/04/2012