By Daily Press staff
Researchers in Santa Monica are looking volunteers with advanced colorectal cancer to participate in two final phase studies from UCLA’s Jonsson Cancer Center that test the cancer-fighting powers of an experimental pill designed to cut off the blood supply that feeds oxygen and nutrients to the tumor.
The experimental drug, called PTK/ZK, is paired with what is considered the best chemotherapy combination available for advanced colorectal cancer, so all study volunteers will receive the highest standard of care, hospital officials say. All volunteers enrolled in the studies will get chemotherapy, with half also receiving PTK/ZK while the other half is given a placebo. Researchers hope the PTK/ZK will cut off the blood supply that tumors develop so they can grow and spread.
In addition to offering the studies at the Westwood campus, the clinical trials also are available at the Santa Monica offices of UCLA oncologist Dr. John Klein. Santa Monica residents can receive the study in their own communities, instead of having to drive to West Los Angeles.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on November 8, 2003. Read the original PDF.