TRU-016: Phase Ib started

Emergent began an open-label, U.S. Phase Ib trial to evaluate IV TRU-016 given weekly for 8 weeks followed by 4 monthly doses plus rituximab in about 24 previously untreated patients. Patients will receive 10 mg/kg TRU-016 for the first dose and 20 mg/kg thereafter. TRU-016 is in Phase II testing to treat relapsed CLL and Phase Ib testing for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). The compound has Orphan Drug designation from FDA for CLL.

Earlier this year, Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT, Abbott Park, Ill.) terminated a 2009 deal to co-develop and commercialize the product as a result of a portfolio prioritization process, according to Emergent. Abbott gained rights to TRU-016 through its 2010 acquisition of Facet Biotech Corp., which received rights from Trubion Pharmaceuticals Inc. Emergent acquired Trubion in 2010 (see BioCentury, April 26, 2010; Aug. 16, 2010 & Jan. 2, 2012). ...