Research company GPC Biotech has announced that tests have begun for an international randomised study to arrive at the most reliable way of studying hormone-refractory prostate cancer (HRPC).

The tests are being carried out to evaluate the efficacy of the orally-administered and platinum derived compound satraplatin when used in conjunction with the accepted treatment prednisone.

'We are pleased to have been able to reach the phase 3 registrational study so quickly after receiving clearance to proceed with the trial', said Marcel Rozencweig, a senior vice president of GPC's drug development department.

'We are working closely with the clinical sites to continue recruiting patients as rapidly as possible. We expect over 100 sites worldwide to enrol patients into this study.'

Satraplatin, which is used as a 'second line' defence against the spread of prostate cancer after first line chemotherapy, was shown in a previous study to have an impact on the pace and extent of progression.