On September 12, 2016 Cellectar Biosciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: CLRB) ("the company"), an oncology-focused biotechnology company, reported that its lead therapeutic compound, CLR 131, currently in a Phase 1 clinical trial for multiple myeloma and preparing for a Phase 2 study in multiple myeloma and other hematologic malignancies, will be evaluated by the University of Wisconsin in combination with external beam radiation as a potential combination treatment for head and neck cancers (squamous cell carcinoma) (Press release, Cellectar Biosciences, SEP 12, 2016, View Source [SID:SID1234515111]). The research will be conducted as part of a Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) grant, awarded to the University of Wisconsin by the National Cancer Institute.
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"The rigorous peer review that SPORE grants undergo provides further validation of the therapeutic benefits that CLR 131 could provide in both hematological and solid tumor malignancies. While we remain focused on advancing CLR 131 as a therapy for hematologic malignancies, we look forward to seeing the outcomes of the University’s research," said Jim Caruso, president and CEO of Cellectar Biosciences. "We are grateful for our long-standing relationship with the University of Wisconsin and congratulate them, and in particular, Dr. Paul Harari, chair of human oncology, who oversaw the SPORE grant application."
Earlier this year, Cellectar received a SBIR Fast Track award for CLR 131 from the NCI to conduct a Phase 2 clinical study in hematological malignancies. Additionally, Cellectar also received a patent for CLR 131 in combination with external beam radiation for a wide variety of cancers, including head and neck.
"We are excited to apply this promising new approach, which will allow us to simultaneously treat tumors from within using CLR 131 and from outside using external beam radiation," said Paul Harari, MD, FASTRO, Jack Fowler Professor and chairman, department of human oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. "This combination may provide a powerful attack method against challenging solid tumors where radiation plays a central treatment role."