CAMBRIDGE, Mass., July 30, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Infinity Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq:INFI) today announced that it has initiated a Phase 1 clinical trial of IPI-493, its oral anti-chaperone agent, in patients with advanced solid tumors. IPI-493 has demonstrated significant oral availability, as well as potent and selective inhibition of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), in preclinical studies. IPI-493 expands the company’s Hsp90 portfolio, which also includes IPI-504 (retaspimycin hydrochloride). IPI-504 is expected to enter Phase 3 development later this quarter. Hsp90 is a molecular chaperone that supports and stabilizes numerous cancer-causing proteins; inhibition of the Hsp90 chaperone via anti-chaperone therapy removes a critical source of support for cancer cells, leading to cancer cell death.
