A key potential benefit for patients is that the investigational drug may be offered without additional chemotherapy.
HER2-positive breast cancers have higher-than-normal levels of a protein called HER2. The protein is known to help breast cancer cells multiply quickly, leading to tumors.
The first patient in the Phase 2 clinical trial was treated by Irene M. Kang, M.D., the medical director of women’s health medical oncology for City of Hope Orange County. A renowned breast cancer physician-scientist, Kang practices at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center — the most advanced comprehensive cancer center in Orange County — where she is part of a team bringing new hope to patients with breast cancer and leading pioneering research in the field.
“Treating the first patient in this trial is a significant achievement in our efforts to find new options for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer that continues to progress after treatment,” said Kang, a principal investigator on the study. “Despite the numerous therapies approved for treating advanced or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, many patients ultimately have disease progression. New options for treating these individuals are urgently needed.”
The drug — an immune-stimulating antibody called BDC-001 — could eventually become the first FDA-approved treatment of its kind.
Through the study, the City of Hope Orange County team is finding answers to key questions, including how well the drug reduces the size of tumors and whether it can spare patients the side effects of chemotherapy they would normally receive.
“Early data shows this drug is well-tolerated, with minimal toxicities,” Kang said.
The clinical trial is one of more than 730 innovative Phase 1-3 clinical trials being conducted at City of Hope each year.
Renowned for a legacy of pioneering research and cancer breakthroughs, City of Hope discoveries impact 100 million people around the world annually. Each new discovery means more hope for patients and their families. If you have been diagnosed with cancer, ask your oncologist if you should be part of a clinical trial.
First in research. First in treatment. First in survival. When it comes to cancer, it’s Hope First. Call (888) 333-HOPE (4673).
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