Clinical Trial Begins to Prevent Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia (CIA)
Several researchers are pursuing opportunities to help cancer patients combat hair loss during chemotherapy. One such research is recently announced by Berg Pharma, a Boston-based pharmaceutical company focused on discovery and development of new treatments in cancer and metabolic diseases.
The pharmaceutical company has initiated a clinical trial entitled "Phase I Dose-Escalation Study to Evaluate the Safety, Tolerability and Pharmacokinetics of a Topical Compound 31543 in Adult Patients Receiving Chemotherapy for the Treatment of Breast Cancer." The trial will be conducted at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.
The partnership between Berg Pharma and Memorial Sloan- Kettering is expected to bring a revolutionary change in the way patients perceive chemotherapy.
Says Joaquin J. Jimenez, MD, Associate Professor at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery and an international leader in hair research, "We have reached a pivotal point in which research meets clinical innovation. There is no doubt that the partnership of Berg Pharma and Memorial Sloan- Kettering will bring us closer to finding a solution for chemotherapy-induced alopecia."
This Phase I trial is conducted to ensure the safety and pharmacokinetics and secondary objectives designed to evaluate the ability of the topical drug to prevent or diminish hair loss (alopecia) associated with chemotherapy treatments.
Niven R. Narain, Co-founder, president and CTO of Berg Pharma said, "This is clearly an unmet need in cancer therapy and partnering with a world-class investigator and institution to advance BPM 31543 into clinical development is very exciting. Berg is committed to treating not only cancer but also the harsh side effects seen with some chemotherapy regimens."
According to UpToDate.com, chemotherapy-induced hair loss is completely reversible; however, it takes a few weeks to regain hair growth. The new hair frequently has different characteristics from the original; 65 percent of patients experience a graying, rejuvenating, curling, or straightening effect. This is due to the differential effects of chemotherapy on hair follicle melanocytes and inner root sheath epithelia.
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