Rexahn Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSEMKT:RNN) is a clinical stage biotechnology company dedicated to targeting specific proteins localized in human cancer cells but not in healthy tissues for the treatment of cancer. This approach is in conjunction with this current trend in cancer research to increase efficacy and safety. RNN has three major drug candidates in clinical trials for some tough cancers with unmet or under met markets. RNN is developing its first candidate, RX-3117, in ongoing phase 2 clinical trials for treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer and metastatic muscle invasive bladder cancer. Supinoxin, its second candidate, is being evaluated in phase 2 clinical trial in patients with metastatic triple negative breast cancer. Finally, Archexin is under analysis in a phase 2 clinical trial in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma.
Gemcitabine is currently the leading treatment for pancreatic cancer. Unfortunately, however, resistance to gemcitabine occurs in approximately 25% to 40% of cancer patients over time of treatment, which reduces overall treatment efficacy and further limits options for patients. Resistance of cancers to gemcitabine treatment occurs due to its short natural half life, rapid metabolism, and opponent process increased expression of ribonucleotide reductase. Exploration of slower release and more effective delivery of gemcitabine as well as inhibition of pathways such as ATF2 to sensitize gemcitabine responses are ongoing. However, RNN has a different approach.
