PhoreMost has unveiled its lead oncology programme, PMC-001, as the investigational brain cancer therapy moves towards Phase 1 clinical development and the company strengthens its leadership team with the appointment of a chief medical officer.

The Cambridge-based biotech said PMC-001 is a next-generation small molecule microtubule targeting agent being developed for the treatment of primary and secondary brain cancers, including glioblastoma and cancers that have spread to the brain from other tumour types.

According to the company, the candidate has been designed to overcome limitations associated with existing microtubule targeting agents by offering oral bioavailability and the ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. PhoreMost said preclinical studies demonstrated anti-tumour activity and tolerability across multiple oncology models.

The company also announced that chemistry, manufacturing and controls work has been completed and that it is preparing regulatory filings ahead of first-in-human clinical studies.

PMC-001 originated from PhoreMost’s collaboration with Sentinel Oncology, with PhoreMost now leading further development of the programme as it advances towards the clinic.

Alongside the programme update, the company has appointed Gabriel Fox as consulting chief medical officer to oversee the clinical development of PMC-001. He brings three decades of pharmaceutical industry experience spanning drug development and has held roles at Roche and Gilead Sciences.

Neil Torbett, chief executive officer of PhoreMost, said: “PMC-001 shows striking tumour growth inhibition and holds great promise in delivering clinical benefit to patient groups that represent the highest areas of unmet need – announcing the programme is a fantastic milestone.”

He added: “With Gabriel’s extensive experience, we are excited to build on the impressive preclinical proof points and progress towards first-in-human trials, to deliver on our promise of unlocking the next generation of medicines.”

Fox said: “I am thrilled to be joining PhoreMost as it reaches this significant milestone and approaches clinical stage.”

He added: “Having seen first-hand the patient need for new treatment options for both primary brain cancers and cancers with brain metastases, I am excited to be a part of the team moving it into the clinic.”

The announcement marks a step forward for PhoreMost as it prepares to transition PMC-001 from preclinical development into clinical testing, with the company positioning the candidate for the treatment of cancers affecting the brain where new therapeutic options remain limited.