A groundbreaking study led by researchers at The University of Texas at Austin introduces a novel drug that restores the effectiveness of immune cells in combating cancer.
Published in the journal Cancer Cell, the research unveils promising results in mouse models of various cancers, including melanoma, bladder cancer, leukemia, and colon cancer.
The drug not only retards tumor growth and prolongs lifespan but also enhances the efficacy of immunotherapy, potentially revolutionizing cancer treatment for countless patients.
9p21 Deletion and Immune Suppression
Many cancers exhibit a common genetic alteration known as the 9p21 deletion, prevalent across various cancer types such as melanoma, bladder cancer, mesothelioma, and certain brain cancers.
This deletion impedes the body’s natural immune response to cancer cells, fostering resistance to immunotherapy. Cancer cells exploit this deletion to produce a toxic compound called MTA, impairing immune cell function and thwarting immunotherapeutic interventions.
The newly developed drug targets MTA-induced immune suppression by restoring immune cell activity. In preclinical models, the drug effectively reduces MTA levels, revitalizing the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack tumor cells. Lead researcher Everett Stone envisions combining this drug with existing immunotherapies to amplify treatment efficacy.
Drug Development and Mechanism
The drug, named PEG-MTAP, harnesses a naturally occurring enzyme that degrades MTA, augmented with flexible polymers to prolong its effectiveness in the body.
This modification ensures sustained circulation of the enzyme, enhancing its therapeutic potential. Initial tests in mouse models demonstrate prolonged enzyme activity, laying the groundwork for human clinical trials.
Further safety evaluations and clinical trials are underway to assess the drug’s efficacy and safety in human subjects.
The multidisciplinary research team, comprising scientists from The University of Texas at Austin and other institutions, aims to advance this innovative drug toward clinical application, offering hope to cancer patients worldwide.
