Here is why Invion’s (ASX:IVX) clinical journey to cancer treatment deserves attention  

ASX-listed life-sciences company Invion Limited (ASX:IVX) is advancing the global research & development of Photosoft^TM technology, a novel next-generation Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), to treat several types of cancers, atherosclerosis, and infectious diseases.

Using non-toxic photosensitisers and light to kill cancer cells, PDT is less invasive than surgery and has minimal side effects. Thus, the therapy offers an alternative treatment option aimed at achieving complete tumour regression and long-lasting remission.

ALSO READ: Strong first half lifts Invion’s (ASX:IVX) hopes for Photosoft technology development as it prepares for clinical trials

Source: IVX Presentation, dated 3 February 2022

Against the backdrop of growing concerns over long-term side effects of the currently available treatments, the Company is advancing the development of Photosoft^TM technology in collaboration with technology licensor, RMW Cho Group Limited.

On the research front, the Company has collaborated with Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.

ALSO READ: All you need to know about Invion’s (ASX:IVX) journey to develop cancer treatment

Solid results from follow-up PoC II studies

Invion along with its research partner Hudson Institute of Medical Research undertook follow-up Proof-of-Concept (PoC) II studies to identify the efficacy of its Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient- INV043 against hard-to-treat Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC).

In the PoC II studies, immunocompetent mice that had been implanted with TNBC, were treated with INV043, with results showing:

Source: IVX updates

Hudson Institute is conducting further studies on INV043, including tests on larger samples of mice, combination therapies and other cancer indications.

Exclusive distribution rights to Photosoft^TM technology

Last year, under a new arrangement with RMW Cho, invion expanded its Photosoft^TM technology territory for cancer indications. The Company will gain exclusive distribution rights to the technology in all Asia-Pacific countries excluding Macau, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and China.

ALSO READ: Invion (ASX:IVX) making inroads into treatment of atherosclerosis and infectious diseases

Moreover, the Company’s existing R&D services agreement with RMW Cho is in place where all cancer-related R&D of Photosoft™ around the world, except Asia-Pacific will be fully funded by RMW Cho.

These agreements significantly expand the pipeline of opportunities and markets available to Invion.

Strong financial position

As of 31 December 2021, Invion held cash reserves of AU$13.6 million, an increase of around AU$10.7 million from the September quarter. The cash position of the Company was bolstered by AU$12.1 million, successfully raised via share placement and share purchase plan.

Invion intends to use the capital for pre-clinical and clinical work. In addition, funds would also be used to expand the Company’s exclusive agreement covering cancer-related treatments with RMW Cho.

ALSO READ: Invion closes December quarter on firm financial footing and promising drug development outlook

Source: IVX Presentation, dated 3 February 2022

Invion achieved early success by identifying target cancer indications with its partner institutions. Meanwhile, the Company is making pre-clinical preparations aimed at initiating clinical trials in more than one indication this calendar year.