EMRIS Pharma is an Israeli startup working to prevent side effects of cancer treatment by alleviating associated skin toxicities.
The Israeli company developed a small molecule-based topical drug that addresses skin toxicities in cancer patients, especially colorectal and head and neck cancers.
EGFR inhibitory monoclonal antibodies (EGFRi) are antibodies that are often used in the treatment of cancer patients. Although they are very effective, the vast majority of people have serious skin toxicities that affect their well-being.
This is a prominent facial rash that resembles acne. According to the American Cancer Society, a rash is the most common side effect of these therapies, varying in severity depending on the type and dose of treatment.
Sharon Merims, co-founder of EMRIS, explained that EMRIS ointment selectively blocks the cancer-causing drug at the site of toxicity, preventing it from affecting healthy skin cells.