Tocagen starts Toca 5 clinical trial enrollment in Israel

Tocagen's Phase 2/3 Toca 5 clinical trial has begun enrolling patients in Israel as enrollment in the United States and Canada continues.
The study was designed to evaluate Toca 511, a cancer-selective virus, combined with Toca FC compared to the standard of care in patients who have first or second recurrence of glioblastoma or anaplastic astrocytoma that are undergoing resection.
“Brain cancer remains one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers, and there is significant need for new approaches. We are excited to be able to offer the Toca 5 gene therapy trial to patients in Israel,” Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Principal Investigator for the Toca 5 clinical trial Dr. Rachel Grossman said.
This investigational treatment is designed to activate the patient’s immune system selectively against the cancer, while maintaining a favorable safety profile.
“Receiving a brain cancer diagnosis is devastating for patients and their families, and if the tumor returns there are very few treatment options,” Hadassah Medical Center Head of the neuro-oncology center Dr. Alexander Lossos said. “Our dedicated brain tumor care team is delighted to be the first clinical site in Israel to randomize a patient for this new study.”