Jim Lambert, PhD

Novel Small Molecules as Breakthrough Therapy for Melanoma

This project aims to address the urgent need for therapeutics targeting aggressive, metastatic melanoma. The researchers have identified a lead compound, VDX-111, that exhibits efficacy in melanoma models by inhibiting a novel target associated with aggressive melanoma. To further improve the therapeutic potential, they have synthesized novel analogs of VDX-111 with reduced toxicity and higher potency. The study will evaluate the therapeutic index of these analogs by determining their maximum tolerated dose and anti-cancer efficacy in murine xenograft models of melanoma. The successful accomplishment of these goals will provide strong data to support the filing of a composition-of-matter patent and justify IND-enabling studies for human clinical trials, potentially attracting investors and licensees. The team's previous success and expertise in both scientific and business aspects make them well-positioned to advance this promising approach towards clinical application for improved melanoma treatment. Collaborator: Yiqun Shellman, PhD

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