#United States #San Diego #Cancer Research #Sapience Therapeutics #AACR 2026

Sapience Therapeutics to Present at AACR Annual Meeting 2026

Sapience Therapeutics, Inc., a pioneering biotechnology firm concentrating on oncology-related peptide therapeutics, is gearing up for an impactful presence at the 2026 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting. Scheduled to occur from April 17-22, 2026, in San Diego, California, the company will showcase groundbreaking clinical insights through three prominent poster presentations that emphasize its commitment to developing transformative cancer treatments.

Conference Highlights

The pivotal presentations will detail the innovative research surrounding the leading drug candidate ST316, which stands out as a first-in-class antagonist of the interaction between β-catenin and BCL9. This interaction is critically implicated across various cancers, particularly where Wnt/β-catenin signaling is improperly activated, fostering tumor progression and immune evasion. By presenting these findings, Sapience not only elucidates new pathways for cancer therapy but also actively engages with the international scientific community dedicated to eradicating this devastating disease.

Poster Presentation Details:

1. Title: ST316, a first-in-class β-catenin antagonist, demonstrates safety and efficacy in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC)
Session Title: Phase II and III Clinical Trials
Date & Time: Monday, April 20, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM PST
Location: Poster Section 52, Poster Board Number 20
Abstract Number: CT156

2. Title: Antagonism of β-catenin/BCL9 interaction suppresses polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cell generation and maintenance
Session Title: Oncogenic Pathways and Cancer Immunity
Date & Time: Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM PST
Location: Poster Section 7, Poster Board Number 5
Abstract Number: 5562

3. Title: Targeted antagonism of the activator protein 1 transcription factor complex results in potent anti-tumor activity in HNSCC models
Session Title: Oncogenic Transcription Factors and Cancer Programs
Date & Time: Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM PST
Location: Poster Section 24, Poster Board Number 17
Abstract Number: 4767

Groundbreaking Drug Candidate: ST316

ST316 is recognized not only for its pioneering approach but for its clinical relevance in treating metastatic colorectal cancer among other malignancies. This innovative drug targets β-catenin's interaction with BCL9, essential for driving oncogene expression. Importantly, ST316 retains a selective mechanism by disrupting this interaction while sparing normal physiological processes. As a result, this therapeutic approach presents an intriguing opportunity to treat tumors driven by errant Wnt/β-catenin signaling without adverse effects on vital tissues, such as the intestine and bone.

Complementing this program, the Phase 1/2 study, ST316-101 (NCT05848739), currently assesses the safety, pharmacodynamics, and preliminary efficacy of ST316 in patients diagnosed with advanced solid tumors displaying Wnt/β-catenin pathway abnormalities, such as those linked with colorectal cancer. The FDA's designation of Orphan Drug status for ST316 specifically for familial adenomatous polyposis further underscores its therapeutic potential.

About Sapience Therapeutics

Headquartered in Tarrytown, New York, Sapience Therapeutics, Inc. is on the frontline of cancer biotechnology. The company is dedicated to not only the discovery of next-generation peptide therapeutics but also the optimization of current treatment modalities that most effectively target oncogenic pathways. With an emphasis on addressing immune dysregulation, their therapeutic candidates, under the trade name SPEARs™ (Stabilized Peptides Engineered Against Regulation), highlight their innovative capabilities in modifying cellular interactions at unprecedented levels.

Sapience’s research also extends to SPARCs™ (Stabilized Peptides Against Receptors on Cancer), ensuring targeted delivery of therapeutic agents, thus maximizing treatment efficacy while minimizing systemic effects.

For more details about their research and program updates, visit Sapience Therapeutics and join the conversation on LinkedIn.