Glioblastoma Grade IV is a heterogeneous type of brain tumour of the glial cells characterized by its malignancy rapid progression and devastating mortality rates. Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive malignant brain tumour in adults, and one of the most lethal human cancers, with a median survival of 14.6 months and only 2 to 3 % surviving after 24 months. Europe, it affects approximately 2-3 people in every 100,000 each year. It accounts for 50% of all brain tissue tumour cases and 15% of all tumours inside the skull. The disease progresses rapidly and patients deteriorate quickly. Despite the significant progress made in the treatment of other cancers, the prognosis for glioblastoma remains extremely poor. About 50% of patients diagnosed with glioblastoma die within one year, and a staggering 90% within three years. Furthermore, the 5-year survival rate is particularly poor (those known as extreme survivors), at less than 3%.
Double Bond has developed a gel formulation - SI053 - a unique polymer matrix that encapsulates the highly potent active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) temozolomide to radically increase therapeutic efficacy and locally treat brain tumours. At the same time, healthy tissues are protected from toxic effects by minimizing exposure. Following surgical removal of the tumour, SI053 can be placed in the tumour cavity (intracerebral application), where it can directly and slowly release high concentrations of temozolomide The matrix will then biodegrade once all the temozolomide is released.
Double Bond has performed a feasibility assessment in order to explore the clinical pathway to market and the ideal route to commercialization.
