Final Patient Receives VP-315 Dose in Phase 2 Basal Cell Carcinoma Trial

Verrica Pharmaceuticals, a company focused on dermatological treatments, has reached a significant milestone in its clinical trials. The final patient has been administered the drug in Part 2 of the Phase 2 study for VP-315, a groundbreaking oncolytic peptide being investigated for its potential to treat basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most prevalent form of skin cancer.

The Phase 2 trial is a multicenter, open-label study designed to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of VP-315 when administered directly into the tumor. Approximately 80 adult subjects diagnosed with BCC are expected to participate. The study's results are anticipated in the second quarter of 2024.

VP-315 is a novel immunotherapy that operates by inducing the death of cancer cells, stimulating the patient's immune system to respond. It is based on research into host defense peptides, which are the body's initial line of defense against foreign invaders. The treatment is administered directly into the tumor and works by causing the destruction of the cancer cells' internal structures, triggering a broad immune response.

BCC is a widespread condition with 3-4 million new cases diagnosed annually in the U.S. Current treatments are primarily surgical and can lead to discomfort and scarring. Verrica's VP-315 aims to offer a less invasive alternative for patients.

Verrica holds an exclusive global license to develop and market VP-315 for dermatological oncology uses, with initial focus on basal and squamous cell carcinomas. The drug has shown promising immune responses in previous Phase 1/2 trials across various indications.The company is looking forward to sharing the Phase 2 results and is hopeful about VP-315's potential as a first-in-class treatment for skin cancer. Further clinical trials will be planned post the conclusion of the current study.