Theralase says X-ray drug effective in cancer models

Executive Summary

• Theralase Technologies released a scientific poster and abstract published in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology -- Biology -- Physics demonstrating the efficacy of its X-ray-activated drug, Rutherrin, in preclinical cancer models.
• The research highlights significant improvements in tumor destruction, immune activation, and survival rates when Rutherrin is combined with radiation therapy compared to radiation alone.
• The company outlined its next steps, including completing Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) toxicology studies in 2026 to support clinical development for glioblastoma (GBM), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), pancreatic, lymphoma, and colorectal cancers.

Key Details

• Publication: Abstract titled "Rutherrin Activated by Radiation Therapy Induces Synergistic tumour Regression through Direct Destruction and Immune Activation in Multiple Preclinical Cancer Models" published in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology -- Biology -- Physics.
• Efficacy Metrics:
  • Tumor Destruction: Radiation-activated Rutherrin achieved a 100-fold increase in cancer cell kill versus radiation therapy alone.
  • Immune Mechanism: Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and stimulated immune-related cytokine and chemokine expression.
  • Resistance: Modulated drug efflux pathways to overcome multidrug and radiation resistance.
  • Colorectal Models: Induced complete tumor regression and provided long-term protection against tumor rechallenge.
  • GBM Models: Demonstrated >10-fold preferential tumor uptake over healthy brain tissue.
  • Survival: Significantly prolonged survival in both GBM and lung models compared with radiation alone.
• Future Development:
  • Completion of GLP toxicology studies scheduled for 2026.
  • Targeted clinical development for: Glioblastoma (GBM), Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), Pancreatic cancer, Lymphoma, and Colorectal cancer.

Notable Quotes

• Mark Roufaiel, PhD, Research Scientist: "The preclinical research has demonstrated the utility of X-ray-activated Rutherrin as a preferred addition to radiation therapy to increase efficacy, improve local tumour control, overcome treatment resistance and stimulate systemic immunity."
• Arkady Mandel, MD, PhD, DSc, Chief Scientific Officer: "Next steps in our research program are to complete good laboratory practice toxicology studies in 2026, paving the way for the launch of clinical development targeting GBM, NSCLC, pancreatic, lymphoma and colorectal cancers."
• Roger DuMoulin-White, President and CEO: "We are proud to share our scientific research demonstrating Rutherrin's unique characteristics in the destruction of cancer. The patented compound amplifies radiation's direct cytotoxic effects, while stimulating a durable immune response, positioning it as a potential breakthrough in the management of aggressive cancers."