Advexin is an engineered virus which delivers a gene for the P53 protein
which is suppresses growth in many cancers and is the target of much
research.  P53 causes cells who's DNA is damaged to hibernate or die.  One
of the mutations required for cancers to grow is destruction of subversion
of the cells normal p53 mechanism.

Advexin is currently in phase III trials for head and neck cancer.

There was a phase II trial this year at MD Anderson for locally advanced
breast cancer where this drug was added to a neo-adjuvant (pre-surgery)
chemotherapy regime.  The results so far appear encouraging.

Tim Jackson

Hi Laura,
I don't know if this new drug for cancer you have heard of, is the same as
the one which I have been told about, but this does sound very encouraging.
Lets hope the research pays off huh?
I was told by a friend who lives in the U.S, that there is some kind of
trials going on over there, which have been very encouraging with regards to
tests that have been done so far on lab rats. It does sound to be something
very similar to what you and subsequently Tim, have been describing.
Let's all hope that these tests go on to be as successful in humans?

Take care,

Shaz x