Cell Therapeutics, Inc. and Novartis will collaborate to co-develop XYOTAX™ (poliglumex paclitaxel), an investigational agent in Phase III for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and other cancers. Xyotax, currently in Phase III clinical trials, is a biologically-enhanced chemotherapeutic that links paclitaxel, the active ingredient in Taxol®, to a biodegradable >polyglutamate polymer.

When bound to the polymer, the chemotherapy is rendered inactive, potentially sparing normal tissue's exposure to high levels of unbound, active chemotherapy and its associated toxicities. Blood vessels in tumor tissue, unlike blood vessels in normal tissue, are porous to molecules like polyglutamate. Once inside the tumor cell, enzymes metabolize the protein polymer, releasing the paclitaxel chemotherapy.

Preclinical studies suggest that XYOTAX is preferentially distributed to tumors due to their leaky blood vessels. Since the drug is trapped within the tumor, these cells are exposed to a significantly higher dose of chemotherapy compared to when standard paclitaxel is used.

More on the financial details of the agreement from CTI's press reelase.