Zymogenetics' IL-21 shows high MM response rate

Seattle, USA-based biotechnology firm ZymoGenetics presented Phase II interim Phase II data showing its interleukin-21 demonstrated an  impressive overall response rate in the treatment of metastatic  melanoma.

The single-agent multicenter trial is being conducted in Canada and is  evaluating three dosing regimens of IL-21 in patients with no prior  systemic therapy for metastatic melanoma. The primary endpoint is  efficacy, as measured by objective response or lack of early disease  progression.

To date, seven of the 24 patients (29%) had a partial response, while  eight (33%) had stable disease. The most common adverse events were mild  or moderate fatigue and rash.