GlaxoSmithKline begins phase III trial of acute coronary syndrome therapy

GlaxoSmithKline has announced the commencement of a phase III cardiovascular outcomes study assessing the efficacy of losmapimod in acute coronary syndrome patients.

The LATITUDE-TIMI 60 trial will examine whether losmapimod can reduce the risk of a subsequent cardiac event when administered orally twice a day for a period of three months immediately after presentation with an acute coronary syndrome.

Losmapimod functions by inhibiting p38 mitogen activated protein kinase, an enzyme understood to play a central role in the acute inflammation that occurs during a heart attack.

In recent years, changes in diet and lifestyle – along with new approaches to treatment – have led to improved outcomes for patients with coronary artery disease, but patients who suffer heart attacks remain at increased risk of another event in the ensuing weeks and months.

Dr John Lepore, senior vice-president of metabolic pathways and cardiovascular research and development at GlaxoSmithKline, said: "The start of our losmapimod study is an important step forward in the search for innovative therapies aimed at reducing the recurrence of cardiovascular events."

Earlier this month, the company announced a strategic collaboration and licensing agreement with Adaptimmune, focusing on the development of new cancer immunotherapy solutions.