LOCUS FILES IND FOR LP-261

Locus Pharmaceuticals has submitted an investigational new drug application to federal regulators to begin a human clinical study of an oral compound to treat cancer.

Locus' lead small-molecule drug, LP-261, potentially blocks tumor growth. The early stage Phase I trial, which is expected to begin in August 2005, will evaluate LP-261 in patients with advanced metastatic tumors and blood cancers.