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About Archer Biosciences

Archer is a new biotechnology company devoted to the evolution of cancer therapies. To this end, overcoming resistance mechanisms, increasing efficacy, and minimizing side effects are our key areas of focus.

Archer's major endeavor currently is the clinical development of ARC 100 (formerly TPI 287) for the treatment of multiple types of cancer. ARC 100 is an investigational agent whose mechanism of action is similar to other anti-tubulin drugs. Microtubulin-targeting drugs (e.g. taxanes, epothilones) act by inhibiting the activity of the spindle apparatus, an essential process allowing tumor cells to divide. These drugs are important components of chemotherapy for a variety of cancers, including tumors of the breast, lung, prostate, ovary, stomach, and head and neck. Unfortunately, resistance to these agents often develops, potentially due to upregulation of the efflux protein encoded by the mdr1 gene. Side effects of these drugs, notably myelosuppression, may also limit their utility. In addition, there is little activity against certain tumor types, e.g. pancreatic cancer.