PAS-004 for Neurofibromatosis
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new drug, PAS-004, for individuals with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) who have painful or problematic plexiform neurofibromas (nerve tumors). The goal is to assess participants' tolerance to different doses and identify any side effects. In Part A, participants will try various doses to determine the safest options. In Part B, two doses from Part A will undergo further exploration for their potential impact on the tumors. Individuals with NF1 who have at least one problematic tumor that cannot be fully removed by surgery might be suitable for this trial. As a Phase 1 trial, this research aims to understand how PAS-004 works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this new treatment.
Is there any evidence suggesting that PAS-004 is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that PAS-004 is generally safe and well-tolerated by patients. In earlier studies, PAS-004 did not cause severe side effects that prevented patients from continuing treatment. Participants received different doses, and the treatment remained manageable at various levels.
Although the treatment is still in early testing for neurofibromatosis, the safety data from these studies are promising, suggesting that most people can tolerate PAS-004. Regular check-ups and tests are part of the trial to ensure ongoing safety.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatments for neurofibromatosis, which often include surgery, radiation therapy, or traditional chemotherapy, PAS-004 is unique because it involves a new sequential dose escalation approach. This approach allows researchers to carefully increase the dosage from 4 mg to 18 mg to find the most effective and safe dose for patients. Additionally, PAS-004 targets specific molecular pathways associated with the growth of neurofibromas, which could potentially offer a more precise treatment option compared to the broader effects of current therapies. Researchers are excited about PAS-004 because it promises to be more targeted, potentially leading to fewer side effects and better outcomes for patients.
What evidence suggests that PAS-004 might be an effective treatment for neurofibromatosis?
Research has shown that PAS-004 may help treat conditions related to certain genetic changes. In studies with patients who have advanced solid tumors with RAS, NF1, or RAF mutations, PAS-004 caused some tumors to shrink or stop growing temporarily. PAS-004, a MEK inhibitor, blocks specific pathways in cells that promote tumor growth. This trial will evaluate PAS-004 in two parts: Part A involves sequential dose escalation, and Part B involves two parallel cohorts dosing at levels selected based on Part A safety results. Although researchers are still studying this treatment, early results suggest it might help manage tumors in NF1, which is associated with neurofibromas. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Tiago R Marques, MD
Principal Investigator
Pasithea Therapeutics Corp.
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) who have at least one symptomatic plexiform neurofibroma that's at least 3 cm in size and not suitable for complete surgical removal. Participants must be able to swallow pills, have a performance level of ≥70%, and meet specific NF1 diagnostic criteria. They cannot join if they might have similar conditions like Noonan Syndrome or schwannomatosis.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment Part A
Participants receive PAS-004 in sequential dose escalation: 4 mg, 8 mg, 12 mg, and 18 mg to evaluate safety and tolerability
Treatment Part B
Two parallel cohorts dosing at 2 levels selected based on Part A safety results, continuing PAS-004 for up to 6 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- PAS-004
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Pasithea Therapeutics Corp.
Lead Sponsor
Novotech (Australia) Pty Limited
Industry Sponsor
Dr. John Moller
Novotech (Australia) Pty Limited
Chief Executive Officer
MD and MBA from the University of Oxford
Dr. Judith Ng-Cashin
Novotech (Australia) Pty Limited
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD