Celon Pharma S.A. in the face of another innovative discovery

The scientific-business consortium lead by Celon Pharma S.A. received funding from the National Centre for Research and Development (NCRD) as part of the STRATEGMED programme for the development of another innovative project: "Development of novel biomarkers and innovative FGFR kinases inhibitor as an anti-cancer therapy" (CELONKO).

Celon Pharma will lead the "Development of modern novel biomarkers and development of an innovative FGFR kinases inhibitor for the treatment of neoplastic diseases an anti-cancer therapy" (CELONKO) project in cooperation with four other consortium members: National Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases in Warsaw, Military Institute of Medicine in Warsaw, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology and Medical University of Gdańsk.

The objective of the CELONKO project is preclinical and clinical development of a new anti-cancer drug targeting fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs). As a result of R&D works, a selective, small-molecule FGFR inhibitor will be obtained. It will be possible to use this drug in the fight against stomach cancer, bladder cancer and in treatment of squamous cell lung cancer.

Another objective of the project will be the development of a diagnostic test for identifying patients with FGFR receptor aberrations. This will allow for selecting the patients who would benefit most from a personalized therapy based on a selective FGFR inhibitor.

"The main features distinguishing this innovative drug will be the targeted, profiled therapeutic effect and few adverse effects, that is everything which constitutes a cutting-edge solution in cancer treatment" – Maciej Wieczorek, CEO of Celon Pharma S.A. announced.

So far, no FGFR kinase inhibitors have been registered, and the FGFR kinase inhibitor developed by Celon Pharma is more active and selective in studies on kinases and many cell lines.

The total cost of the project is PLN 54,717,125, of which PLN 39,025,710 is financed by the National Centre for Research and Development.