#United States #Seattle #Atossa Therapeutics #(Z)-endoxifen #ER-Positive Breast Cancer

Atossa Therapeutics Unveils New Anti-Cancer Compounds

Atossa Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATOS), a biopharmaceutical firm specializing in innovative oncology therapies, has recently published groundbreaking research in the journal npj Breast Cancer. This research highlights five novel compounds structurally related to (Z)-endoxifen, offering promising results in treating estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer, particularly in models with ESR1 mutations.

Significant Findings from the Research

The published study reveals that these new chemical entities demonstrate potent anti-cancer activities across several laboratory models of ER-positive breast cancer. Among the five compounds explored — AT416E, AT416Z, AT402E, AT402Z, and AT300 — a variety of tests were conducted to evaluate their effectiveness against tumor growth, apoptosis, and other cancerous behaviors.

Through a multitude of assays, these compounds showcased strong anti-estrogenic capabilities and the ability to combat multiple cancer processes. For instance, the various compounds impacted cell-cycle progression, inhibited migration and invasion of cancer cells, and influenced estrogen receptor activity. Notably, certain compounds exhibited enhanced activity when used in conjunction with the CDK4/6 inhibitor, abemaciclib, demonstrating either additive or synergistic effects.

Addressing Unmet Medical Needs

Estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer represents the most prevalent subtype of breast cancer encountered today. Despite the efficacy of current endocrine therapies for many patients, challenges related to cancer recurrence and late relapses persist significantly. The discovery of activating mutations in ESR1 linked to treatment resistance has highlighted an urgent need for innovative therapies. Atossa's investigation into these compounds could pave the way towards effective solutions that specifically target these resistant tumors.

Dr. Steven C. Quay, President and CEO of Atossa Therapeutics, expressed optimism about the recent findings, stating, "This publication expands the scientific framework of our endoxifen platform and uncovers powerful candidates against challenging ER-positive subtypes of breast cancer. Especially promising is the observed efficacy in ESR1-mutant models and in conjuction with existing treatments."

Future Directions for Research and Development

The authors of the study encourage further investigation into these compounds, particularly in assessing their in vivo safety and efficacy levels. The potential for these compounds in treating recurrent diseases as second- or third-line therapies is of particular interest, given their demonstrated capabilities in preclinical settings. Although these findings remain within a preclinical context, the results offer a compelling rationale for deeper research into these anti-cancer agents.

About Atossa Therapeutics

Atossa Therapeutics focuses on developing innovative treatments for oncology and other areas of unmet medical needs. Their lead drug, (Z)-endoxifen, stands out due to its unique mode of action as a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator/Degrader (SERM/D). Its differentiated pharmacological profile could address significant questions in the current therapeutic landscape.

This promising research not only reinforces Atossa's commitment to addressing vital therapeutic gaps in breast cancer treatment but also highlights the importance of ongoing innovation in tackling challenging medical problems.

For more information and updates on the development of (Z)-endoxifen and related compounds, visit Atossa Therapeutics' website.