NetScientific's PDS investment begins phase 2 trial of cancer treatment

Life sciences and technology investor NetScientific announced on Tuesday that its portfolio company PDS Biotechnology has opened the phase 2 clinical trial of ‘PDS0101’ in combination with standard of care chemoradiotherapy, for the treatment of locally-advanced cervical cancer.

The AIM-traded firm said the trial was being led by Ann Klopp, associate professor of radiation oncology and Olsi Gjyshi, resident in radiation oncology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

It said the trial would investigate the antitumour efficacy and safety of the PDS0101-chemoradiotherapy combination, and its correlation with critical biomarkers of immune response, in about 35 patients.

“In line with NetScientific's strategic review and stated plans, we supported PDS through two successful public placements approximating $32m in 2020,” said Dr Ilian Iliev, chief executive officer of NetScientific and a director of PDS Biotechnology.

“The resulting funding provided PDS with the resources and runway needed to implement their ambitions development programme.

“We are pleased at the continued progress of PDS in reaching the start of this phase 2 clinical trial with a prestigious partner.”

NetScientific holds around 5.75% of the undiluted share capital in PDS Biotechnology.

At 1258 GMT, shares in NetScientific were up 3.45% at 58.45p.