TransCode Therapeutics Shares Promising Preclinical Findings for TTX-MC138 in Glioblastoma Treatment
TransCode Therapeutics, Inc., a pioneering clinical-stage company known for its innovations in immuno-oncology and RNA therapies, has recently disclosed significant preclinical findings regarding its lead candidate, TTX-MC138, aimed at treating glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). The research, which emphasizes the efficacy of TTX-MC138 in targeting a particular microRNA crucial for tumor survival, has been documented in the Journal of Functional Biomaterials, reflecting the collaboration with esteemed researchers from Michigan State University.
Glioblastoma is renowned as one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer, often yielding a stark prognosis for patients, with a median survival rate of less than two years despite existing treatment methods. TTX-MC138 seeks to change that narrative by targeting microRNA-10b (miR-10b), which is linked with tumor growth, survival, and invasion. The study results reveal promising data, showcasing the effective delivery of TTX-MC138 to glioblastoma tumors in murine models post intravenous injection, which not only achieved sustained target engagement but also indicated a remarkable five-fold increase in tumor cell apoptosis.
TransCode's innovative approach demonstrates the ability to systematically deliver antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to brain tumors, overcoming significant challenges like nucleic acid degradation and limited tumor penetration. This is particularly crucial as the drug has advanced through various development stages, including pharmacokinetics and toxicity studies, which have reported favorable safety profiles during its Phase I clinical trials on non-CNS cancers. The favorable outcomes from these findings set the stage for advancing TTX-MC138 into clinical trials specifically targeting GBM patients.
Dr. Zdravka Medarova, CSO of TransCode Therapeutics, emphasized the importance of this research, stating, "This research represents an important step forward in targeting one of the most treatment-resistant forms of cancer." The company aims to extend its innovative RNA-based therapies, amplifying their reach beyond just metastatic solid tumors, thereby opening avenues to potentially transform the therapeutic landscape for GBM.
Looking ahead, TTX-MC138 is currently being evaluated through a Phase 1a clinical trial focused on metastatic diseases, with plans for a Phase 2a clinical trial anticipated to commence in the first half of 2026, further underscoring the translational impact of such findings.
TransCode Therapeutics is resolutely committed to pioneering advanced therapies for high-risk and complex cancers, with TTX-MC138 at the forefront, targeting tumors that significantly overexpress microRNA-10b. Their portfolio includes various first-in-class therapeutic candidates aimed at mobilizing the immune system to recognize and eradicate malignant cells.
In conclusion, the publication of these findings showcases a significant leap in the ongoing battle against glioblastoma, inviting hope for improved survival rates among patients grappling with this challenging diagnosis. As researchers continue to explore effective delivery mechanisms and therapeutic strategies, TTX-MC138 stands as a ray of hope for many.