Andrea Monti Hughes, PhD from the pathology division of the Argentinian National Atomic Energy Commission (CNEA) / National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), recently unveiled preliminary research at the 61st Annual PTCOG Conference, showcasing the potential of TAE Life Sciences' boronated dipeptide, TC440, for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). The preliminary results from in vivo experimental testing of TC440 have sparked hope and excitement in the field of oncology, indicating a significant step forward in revolutionizing how we combat a variety of difficult-to-treat cancers.
TC440 synthesized using Boronophenylalanine (BPA) Structural Analysis Relationship (SAR) chemistry, belongs to a family of dipeptides developed at TLS have shown superior solubility compared to the commonly used BPA, allowing for the formulation of highly concentrated solutions. TC440 can be formulated in fructose at concentrations greater than 150mg/ml. This compares favorably with BPA which is commonly used at 30mg/ml in fructose or sorbitol. The enhanced solubility of these dipeptides enables higher tumor boron delivery, as evidenced by multiple xenograft models showcasing the superior uptake of TC440 and other dipeptides. Furthermore, TC440 has the ability to be internalized via PEPT1 (a peptide transporter) as well as LAT1. This may make uptake in LAT1 negative tumors possible.
One of the most thrilling discoveries is that these compounds can deliver two to three times more boron than BPA in multiple human xenograft models. This increased boron delivery capability holds significant potential in enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of BNCT as a treatment modality.
To further explore the therapeutic application of TC440 and other compounds, TAE Life Sciences is collaborating with the Department of Radiobiology at the National Atomic Energy Commission (CNEA) in Argentina. Dr. Andrea Monti Hughes and her team are working together on BNCT experiments, with preliminary studies already demonstrating encouraging results. These findings were presented at the 61st Annual PTCOG Conferences held in Spain, capturing the attention of experts in the field.
The ongoing study, utilizing an oral cancer model, closely mimics the development of precancerous and malignant human head and neck cancers. This model provides a unique tumor environment, surrounded by precancerous tissue, enabling researchers to investigate the dose-limiting effects of BNCT as observed in field-cancerized oral mucosa in head and neck cancer patients.
Preliminary results from in vivo BNCT studies are highly promising. Where TC440, tested at 800mg/kg showed 41% complete tumor remission compared to 20% with BPA tested at the same dose. Ongoing studies will further explore the potential of new dipeptides from TAE Life Sciences and expand upon these exciting preliminary findings.
The groundbreaking discovery of TC440 and its therapeutic potential for cancer treatment using BNCT marks a significant milestone in the field of oncology. TAE Life Sciences remains committed to advancing innovative solutions that address the challenges of cancer treatment, with the goal of improving patient outcomes and transforming the future of cancer care.
TAE Life Sciences’ Chief Science Officer, Kendall Morrison, will be presenting more study results at the 19th Annual Japanese Neutron Capture Therapy Congress in Yokohama, Japan on July 14th.
