Design of Phase 2 study NeoFox, revision

Our clinical phase 2 study, NeoFox, which evaluated the drug candidate Foxy-5 as a treatment for colorectal cancer, was discontinued during Q3 2024. The decision was based on an initial analysis of results, which showed no more than marginal effects in CT scan analyses of tumor size and lymph node involvement. Additionally, we lacked sufficient data to assess Foxy-5’s impact on tumor cell invasion.

WntResearch faced a critical situation where the warrant program TO7 was essential for continued funding of the study. Since there were no clear indications that we could achieve clinically significant effects with a larger patient sample, it was difficult to justify further investments.

WntResearch also assessed that the initial results significantly reduced the chances of attracting a partner capable of funding and advancing the project. Discussions with potential partners made it clear that a demonstrated effect visible in CT scans was necessary for the project to be commercially interesting enough to proceed.

Although the scientific hypothesis behind Foxy-5 and WntResearch’s previous ad hoc observations have been considered highly intriguing, the commercial potential has played a very significant role in these discussions and in determining the project’s prospects.