A new drug promising to be useful in treatment of the gynecological disorder known as Endometriosis has passed a critical clinical trial at the University of Bath. A specific product of the Medicinal Chemistry Group at the University’s Pharmacy and Pharmacology Department, the drug E2MATE (or PGL2001) is used in Phase 2 cancer treatment, but also appears useful for this the non-cancerous Endometriosis.
Across the globe, tens of millions of women suffer from the pain and infertility that the overgrowth of their endometrium (lining of the uterus) causes. Current Endometriosis Treatment does not seem effective and have unwanted side effects.
Regarding the now promising clinical trial of E2MATE, the research stands on a 2008 published paper from the combined efforts London’s Imperial College and the University at Bath. They looked at a drug called Irosustat.
Professor Barry Potter, who headed up both research teams, is pleased with the results of their work. He indicated that few drugs which are investigated as new treatments make it to the point where their trials show promise. Many trials halt as large budgets and extensive work and cooperation among scientists are just not there. Furthermore, he said he could see the scientific ideas and the drug going forward to treat this difficult gynecological condition. The obstacles were huge, but how E2MATE should be ready for use on women.
The pharmaceutical company Preglem conducted the trials. Sterix Ltd., co-founded by Professor Potter, owns the research and formulation behind E2MATE. Ipsen acquired the company in 2004. An overview of the study on Endometriosis Treatment was published in the Reproductive Sciences journal.