A new formulation of LE-rafAON, NeoPharm's NeoLipid® liposomal formulation of the antisense oligonucleotide agent, c-raf,  is expected to have minimal infusion-related toxicities.  All preclinical studies related to the submission of a revised IND to the FDA have been completed and the data is positive.

The antisense oligonucleotide agent, c-raf, has shown significant down regulation of the gene in Preclinical studies. Also, LE-rafAON has exhibited significant radiation sensitization and chemo sensitization with other anticancer agents such as Gemcitabine and Paclitaxel in human xenograft models in mice in Pancreatic and Prostate tumors. NeoPharm plans to perform the bridging Phase I trial with this newly formulated LE-rafAON and thereafter start Phase II trials in pancreatic and prostate cancer models where this gene seems to be potentially over-expressed. Neopharm intends to further develop the NeoLipid® drug product candidates by using internal resources and by continuing to collaborate with other companies and leading governmental and educational institutions.