COG, Apeiron to conduct APN301 trial in neuroblastoma patients

APN301 is a recombinant fusion protein consisting of the humanized anti-GD2 monoclonal antibody hu14.18 fused to the cytokine interleukin-2 (IL2).

APN301 will be administered along with GM-CSF and isotretinoin to children with refractory or relapsed neuroblastoma,in the trial.

The study which is based on a recent trial with an anti-GD2 monoclonal antibody will commence in the third quarter of 2011 in hospitals throughout the US and Canada.

Children´s Oncology Group MD Peter C. Adamson said leveraging immunotherapy is a primary strategic initiative in their efforts to improve the outcome for patients with high-risk neuroblastoma.