Novartis announces positive data from basal cell carcinoma trial

Novartis has announced positive findings from a new study of a promising oral therapy for advanced basal cell carcinoma.

The Bolt trial assessed the investigational oral compound LDE225, also known as sonidegib, among patients with locally advanced or metastatic basal cell carcinoma. It demonstrated an objective response rate within six months of treatment.

It meant the drug was able to meet its primary efficacy endpoint, providing a clinically significant tumour response, including disappearance of the tumour in some patients within six months of treatment.

Full results from this study will be presented at a future scientific meeting.

Alessandro Riva, interim president of Novartis Oncology and global head of oncology development and medical affairs, said: "These results demonstrate the potential for LDE225 to offer a treatment option for this patient population and we look forward to sharing this data with regulatory authorities worldwide."

This comes after the company broadened its cancer immunotherapy research capabilities with the acquisition of CoStim Pharmaceuticals earlier this week.