New data from YM’s nimotuzumab

YM BioSciences (TSX:YM; AMEX:YMI) of Mississauga and its European partner Oncoscience have reported additional data from a Phase 3 study of YM’s nimotuzumab drug in children with an inoperable form of brain cancer.

“These results demonstrate that nimotuzumab continues its long record of differentiated and remarkable safety and that it brings important benefits to children with this disease who are otherwise subject to aggressive chemotherapy,” Ferdinand Bach, CEO of Oncoscience, the sponsor of the trial, said in a statement.

Based on the results of this trial, the companies plan to submit a “pediatric investigation plan” to the European equivalent of the FDA.  If approved by the agency’s pediatric committee, it would support a submission for marketing authorization, Mr. Bach added.

Among other things, Oncoscience reported that patients were able to stay at home or attend school while undergoing treatment with nimotuzumab.  David Allan, CEO of YM, said the latest results “underscore the value of a drug that can deliver benefit while maintaining quality of life.”

YM is currently conducting a Phase 2 study in children with this form of brain cancer at 10 of the principal oncology hospitals in the U.S., as well as sites in Canada and Israel, with data expected in 2010.