Clinical Trials Begin For Eczema Treatment Avrina

The multi-center phase I/II clinical study will evaluate Avrina, Corgentech's NF-kappaB decoy drug candidate for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema). This is the first of two planned phase I/II trials to finalize patient numbers. Enrollment is ongoing in a second trial in Australia and Switzerland to randomize approximately 120 patients.

The multi-center, placebo-controlled, trial is evaluating the safety and feasibility of repeated application of three concentrations of Avrina to the skin of adult patients with mild-to-moderate eczema.

Avrina is a highly selective and potent inhibitor of the transcription factor, NF-kappaB, which is implicated in inflammatory diseases such as eczema, asthma and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)."While we have a pending proposed merger agreement with AlgoRx Pharmaceuticals that will significantly enhance our product portfolio with three pain management products, we remain committed to and excited about the future potential of Avrina for the treatment of eczema," said Daniel Gennevois, vice president of medical affairs at Corgentech.

According to Corgentech, approximately 15 million adults in the US are afflicted with eczema.