Portage Biotech, a clinical-stage immuno-oncology company, has announced encouraging results in testing of its new cancer drug, PORT-7, on mesothelioma tumors. The drug is a selective adenosine A2B receptor inhibitor that demonstrates better single-agent activity against the rare form of cancer than single-agent anti-PD1 antibodies such as pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab (Opdivo).
Mesothelioma Drug Test Offers Superior Results Over Keytruda and Opdivo
Internationally recognized mesothelioma expert Dr. Luciano Mutti of the Department of Applied Clinical Sciences and Biotechnology at the University of L’Aquila in Italy will be presenting findings from the company’s clinical trial at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) meeting being held in Chicago, Illinois.
The studies used laboratory animals infected with mesothelioma, and found that PORT-7 demonstrated single-agent activity that was superior to treatment with Keytruda and Opdivo, and that when combined with those treatments delivered even better results. The combination of the two types of treatment created special immune structures in the rare form of cancer’s tumors and increased the number of immune cells present to fight the cancer. The biotech company is now preparing to begin human mesothelioma clinical trials.
Biotech Company Investigating Multiple Mesothelioma Treatment Approaches
In addition to the recent PORT 7 mesothelioma trials, the company is also testing a similar drug called PORT-6, which blocks a different but related receptor. They plan to eventually combine both drugs in patients – something that hasn’t been done before. They hope that by blocking both of these pathways at once, they can completely prevent mesothelioma cells from using adenosine, a molecule that suppresses the immune system, to hide from immune attacks. This combined approach may help immunotherapy work for more patients with different types of tumors, including mesothelioma.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the work of innovative companies and scientists offers great hope. For more information and access to important resources, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
