April 15, 2005
BIRMINGHAM, AL — The following statement concerns the release of preliminary results from a large randomized clinical trial for breast cancer treatment with the anti-angiogenesis monoclonal antibody bevacizumab (Avastin, Genentech). It may be attributed to Albert F. LoBuglio, M.D., senior scientist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. LoBuglio, who leads the center’s Targeted Immunotherapy Group, is internationally regarded as a pioneer in monoclonal antibody technology.
"This is an important observation indicating that the administration of this monoclonal antibody (Avastin) to a vascular growth factor can prolong the benefit of chemotherapy in patients receiving their first treatment for metastatic breast cancer. This marks a major advancement for the 70 percent of metastatic breast cancer patients who are not candidates for the drug Herceptin (antibody to HER-2/neu receptor).
"Avastin, when administered with chemotherapy, has also proved effective in treating lung and colon cancer. This is important because these are the most common types of cancer. We expect this drug to have a significant impact in cancer treatment.
"The UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center is now conducting the next generation of studies examining Avastin, including two new clinical trials. One of these will examine Avastin plus hormonal therapy for patients with metastatic disease. Another will examine Avastin plus hormonal therapy for patients who are newly diagnosed."