Sonus gets patent for another cancer drug

Published 10:52 pm Wednesday, June 13, 2007

BOTHELL – Sonus Pharmaceuticals Inc. has received a patent for Tocosol camptothecin, the second potential cancer treatment being developed and tested by the Bothell-based biotechnology firm.

Tocosol camptothecin entered phase 1 clinical tests last fall to test its effectiveness and safety in humans.

The drug is based on camptothecin, a natural ingredient found in the bark of certain Asian trees that’s used for the treatment of various cancers. Sonus thinks its version is more effective with fewer side effects.

Michael Martino, Sonus’ president and chief executive officer, called the new patent grant “an important milestone as we continue to execute our strategy of becoming a multiple-product oncology company.”

Sonus’ more advanced chemotherapy drug, Tocosol paclitaxel, is in late-stage testing on humans. Bayer Schering Pharma AG of Germany is partnering with Sonus on development and future sales of paclitaxel, an alliance that could bring at least $230 million to the local company.

Shares of Sonus gained 7 cents Wednesday to close at $5.71.

Employing more than 60 people, Sonus is getting ready to move into larger headquarters near its existing Canyon Park facility.

Reporter Eric Fetters: 425-339-3453 or fetters@heraldnet.com.