TuHURA Biosciences Presents at the 68th American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting
TuHURA Biosciences, Inc., a prominent player in the realm of immuno-oncology, is set to present groundbreaking research at the 68th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition scheduled for December 12-15, 2026, in New Orleans, Louisiana. As one of the leading institutions in Phase 3 cancer therapeutics, TuHURA aims to share its pivotal findings regarding the Delta Opioid Receptor (DOR), a crucial element in immune regulation related to both cancer and autoimmune diseases.
The Role of Delta Opioid Receptor (DOR) in Cancer Treatment
The research highlights the significant role that DOR plays in regulating multiple genes associated with immune suppression, chemotaxis, and the proliferation of immune-suppressing cells in the body. Dr. James Bianco, President and CEO of TuHURA, emphasized that the DOR is central to understanding the behavior of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSCs), Regulatory T cells (T regs), and M2 macrophages—the three key immune suppressing cells—essential for managing inflammation within the body. However, when manipulated by cancer, these cells contribute to the resistance against immunotherapy, making them a focus for innovative treatments.
Upcoming Presentations
TuHURA will be showcasing three informative posters that delve deeper into their research on DOR and its implications for treating cancer. The presentations will cover the following topics:
1.
Inhibition of DOR on MDSCs
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Abstract Number: 4725
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Presenter: Dr. Krit Ritthipichai, Director of Immunology
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Details: This research reveals how targeting DOR can modulate gene expressions that control MDSC proliferation and migration, presenting a novel approach to tackle immune suppression.
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Session: Granulocytes, Monocytes, and Macrophages Poster III, December 14, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET.
2.
Effects of DOR Inhibition on Tumor-Derived Cells
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Abstract Number: 4721
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Presenters: Dr. Taekyoung Kwak and Dr. Krit Ritthipichai
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Details: This work illustrates how DOR inhibition stimulates proenkephalin gene expression, potentially leading to new strategies in modulating immune suppression in various cancers.
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Session: Similar to Presentation 1.
3.
Implications for Cancer and Autoimmune Disease
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Abstract Number: 4744
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Presenter: Dr. Krit Ritthipichai
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Details: Further exploration of the modulation effects of DOR on immune suppression paints a promising picture for future therapies targeting MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment.
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Session: Granulocytes, Monocytes, and Macrophages Poster III, taking place concurrently with the other posters.
About TuHURA Biosciences
TuHURA Biosciences is dedicated to overcoming the challenges posed by primary and acquired resistance to cancer immunotherapy. One of their flagship products, IFx-2.0, is an innate immune agonist that aims to enhance the efficacy of existing therapies. TuHURA is currently conducting a Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating IFx-2.0 alongside Keytruda® for advanced Merkel Cell Carcinoma, alongside several other innovative therapeutic candidates aimed at various forms of cancer. Their ongoing research into DOR technology holds promise for the development of a new class of antibody-drug conjugates designed to mitigate immune suppression within the tumor microenvironment.
Their commitment to science and innovation is further highlighted through their expansion into VISTA-inhibiting monoclonal antibodies, thereby enhancing their portfolio of unique therapeutic solutions. To learn more about their work and to stay updated on their research endeavors, you can visit their official website at
www.tuhurabio.com or connect through their social media platforms on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
A Bright Future for Cancer Treatment
As the role of immunotherapy continues to grow in importance for treating various types of cancers, TuHURA Biosciences' latest research at the ASH Annual Meeting represents not only a significant advancement in understanding immune suppression but also demonstrates a commitment to developing effective interventions that could change the landscape of cancer treatment in the near future. The innovations presented at the conference may pave the way for more effective therapies and provide hope for patients battling cancer.