OICR, Intensity Therapeutics and The Ottawa Hospital have agreed to collaborate to conduct a Phase II randomized, window of opportunity (WOO) clinical trial evaluating an immunotherapy drug, called INT230-6 vs. the standard of care. Currently there is no treatment available to be given in the gap between the diagnosis of breast cancer and surgery, which is often four weeks long. It is believed the treatment will kill cancer cells and slow the spread of breast cancer prior to surgery.

“WOO trials form a key part of OICR’s new research strategy because they are essential in helping to identify new biomarkers and develop more precise diagnostics and treatments for patients,” said Dr. Christine Williams, Ph.D., Deputy Director, OICR. “This trial is the first in our newly-launched Window of Opportunity Network, and it shows the promise and enthusiasm for WOO trials across the research community. We are proud to be working with proven clinical and industry partners like The Ottawa Hospital and Intensity Therapeutics to determine the effectiveness of INT230-6 in helping early-stage breast cancer patients.”

OICR’s Diagnostic Development group, led by Dr. John Bartlett, will analyze subject immune responses and conduct biomarker analysis. The study’s Principal Investigator is Dr. Angel Arnaout, Professor of Surgery at the University of Ottawa and Scientist at The Ottawa Hospital.

Read the news release