A Massachusetts-based biotechnology company with a mission to eradicate mesothelioma and other diseases through novel science has been exploring a novel drug target within cancer cells that provides them the energy they need to survive and multiply. RS Oncology recently announced the development of a PRX3 inhibitor that it says has seen early success in laboratory tests, giving cause for hope to patients around the world.
PRX3 Presents a Novel Target for Treating Mesothelioma
Following a presentation to attendees of the 2023 International Mesothelioma Interest Group conference in Lille, France, RS Oncology has released a preliminary statement regarding its new drug, RSO-021. According to Brian Cuniff, Ph.D., Chief Science Officer for RSO and Assistant Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Vermont Cancer Center, RSO-021 is being tested as part of a first-in-human Phase 1 clinical trial.
The initial phase of the trial, known as MITOPE, is investigating the use of RSO-021 in mesothelioma patients across four different sites in the United Kingdom. To date, the early experiences with the PRX3 inhibitor have been positive. Future phases will expand testing to other locations later on in 2023.
Mesothelioma Researcher Explains New Drug’s Mechanism
According to Dr. Cuniff, RSO-021 will exploit a vulnerability in mesothelioma tumor cells, leaving them unable to clear their own waste products. One of the United Kingdom-based investigators, Dr. Sean Dulloo of the University Hospitals of Leicester and University of Leicester, reported on three cases indicating both safety and positive impact.
Though still early in testing, mesothelioma expert Professor Dean Fennell expressed optimism at preliminary results. “PRX3 is a novel and interesting therapeutic drug target with potential for treating cancers, especially those with unmet need such as mesothelioma. We await the first clinical results with interest.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, innovative treatments like these offer real hope. For information on other resources, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
