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U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• International News
United States, Japan: Partners Work on Drug to Fight Cervical CancerMarch 2, 2005 St. Paul, Minn.-based 3M Co. announced it will team up with a Japanese drug company to develop a drug to treat the precursor to cervical cancer -- cervical dysplasia -- and the virus scientists believe causes the disease -- human papillomavirus (HPV). The partnership will further expand 3M's portfolio of immune-response modifier (IRM) compounds. IRMs stimulate the body's immune system to fight off virus-infected and tumor cells, although there is some disagreement within the research community about precisely how the compounds work.
Adapted from:Cervical dysplasia is defined as abnormal cell growth in the cervix, and it is often detected by a Pap-smear test. Though there are varying grades of cervical dysplasia, all are considered to be precancerous. Scientists believe HPV is a leading suspect in the formation of abnormal cell growth. The yet-to-be named drug is currently in phase I clinical trials. Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. will provide funding for the drug's research in exchange for exclusive rights to sell the drug in Asia, pending regulatory approval. Phase II trials are expected to begin later this year. Back to other news for March 2, 2005 Wall Street Journal 03.02.05; Erik Ahlberg This article was provided by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is a part of the publication CDC HIV/Hepatitis/STD/TB Prevention News Update. |
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