Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc and Roche announced dosing of the first patient in a phase-3 registration trial using Enhanze technology (rHuPH20, recombinant human hyaluronidase) in a subcutaneous formulation with Roche's anticancer biologic, Herceptin (trastuzumab). This represents the first Roche product to enter a phase-3 registration study as part of the Halozyme Roche collaboration and initiation of the clinical trial has triggered a milestone payment of US$ 5 million to Halozyme. Herceptin is approved to treat HER2-positive breast cancer and currently is given intravenously (IV).

This innovative technology is anticipated to allow patients with HER2-positive breast cancer to administer Herceptin themselves with or without the support of a healthcare professional via a simple subcutaneous injection. Infusion-free administration with subcutaneous Herceptin means for example that patients with early breast cancer completing their one year of Herceptin therapy would have greater convenience of being able to receive treatment at their family doctor's office or at home without having to go to a hospital, a significant and welcome benefit.

"The start of this phase-3 subcutaneous Herceptin trial is a major achievement for the Halozyme and Roche collaboration, representing the first Roche target to reach a pivotal trial. It reflects years of focus, dedication, and teamwork with the aim of providing an innovative solution for improved patient care," said Jonathan Lim, Halozyme's President and CEO. "I congratulate the alliance on the speed of progress to phase-3."

In addition, offering Herceptin treatment outside of the hospital setting could reduce costs and potentially help to maximize the efficient use of hospital resources. Subcutaneous Herceptin would come in a ready-to-use administration device instead of an infusion-bag that needs to be prepared by a pharmacist. Physicians and nurses would conduct fewer infusions at the hospital freeing up infusion chair time for other procedures.

In December 2006, Halozyme entered into an agreement with Roche to apply Halozyme's proprietary Enhanze technology to Roche's biological therapeutic compounds. Under the terms of the agreement, Roche made an initial payment to Halozyme for the application of its recombinant human enzyme, rHuPH20, to three pre-defined biologic targets exclusive to Roche.

Halozyme is a biopharmaceutical company developing and commercializing products targeting the extracellular matrix for the endocrinology, oncology, dermatology and drug delivery markets.