1. Patient enrollment completed for Phase 2 OXTOX study of MN-166. 2. Study focuses on preventing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in colorectal cancer. 3. Top-line data expected in late 2026 after participant treatment concludes. 4. MN-166 shows promise in various neurodegenerative diseases and is in late-stage development. 5. Company maintains strong clinical pipeline and research funding track record.
FAQ
Why Bullish?
Positive clinical milestones often lead to stock surges, as seen previously with biotech stocks.
How important is it?
The completion of enrollment indicates solid progress and potential future validation for MN-166.
Why Long Term?
Long-term data from ongoing trials will shape MNOV's valuation significantly; prior successes improve outlook.
MediciNova Completes Patient Enrollment for OXTOX Study Evaluating MN-166 in Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy
LA JOLLA, Calif., Dec. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MediciNova, Inc. (NASDAQ: MNOV), a biopharmaceutical firm, announced today the successful completion of patient enrollment in its randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 2 clinical trial known as the OXTOX study. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of MN-166 (ibudilast) in preventing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer.
Study Overview and Enrollment Details
The OXTOX study, spearheaded by Dr. Janette Vardy and Dr. Haryana Dhillon, has successfully randomized a total of 100 patients across two treatment arms. These participants were recruited from 11 clinical sites located in Australia, marking the official closure of patient recruitment.
Participants will continue their chemotherapy treatments while taking either MN-166 or a placebo until they experience disease progression or significant side effects. The study aims to conclude once the final patient reaches six months post-chemotherapy. Although the exact completion date is still undetermined, preliminary top-line data is anticipated to be available in late 2026.
About MN-166 (Ibudilast)
MN-166 (ibudilast) is a small molecule that inhibits phosphodiesterase type-4 (PDE4) and inflammatory cytokines, including macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). The compound is currently in late-stage clinical development, not only for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy but also for various neurodegenerative disorders such as:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Progressive multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM)
- Glioblastoma
- Long COVID
- Substance use disorder
In addition, MN-166 has been assessed for its potential in patients at risk for developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). For its indications related to ALS, MediciNova has received Orphan Drug Designation and Fast Track Status from the U.S. FDA, as well as Orphan Drug Designation from the EMA.
About MediciNova, Inc.
MediciNova, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing a diverse pipeline of innovative small molecule therapies aimed at treating inflammatory, fibrotic, and neurodegenerative diseases. The company’s lead asset, MN-166 (ibudilast), is in Phase 3 trials for ALS and DCM and is ready for Phase 3 trials for progressive MS. In parallel, their other compound, MN-001 (tipelukast), is undergoing a Phase 2 trial for managing hypertriglyceridemia in patients with type 2 diabetes. MediciNova also has a proven history of conducting investigator-sponsored clinical trials funded through federal grants.
Forward-Looking Statements
The statements in this article that are not historical in nature should be considered forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These projections pertain to the future efficacy and development of MN-166 and MN-001. They may include terms such as "believes," "expects," "anticipates," and other expressions that indicate future outcomes.
However, these forward-looking assertions carry risks and uncertainties that may lead to actual outcomes differing materially. Risks include potential funding challenges for the development of MN-166 and MN-001, clinical trial uncertainties, regulatory approval processes, and other operational challenges as detailed in MediciNova's filings with the SEC.
Contact Information
For investor inquiries, please contact:
David H. Crean, Ph.D.
Chief Business Officer
MediciNova, Inc.
Email: info@medicinova.com