HBC Immunology (HBCI) is pleased to announce the successful completion of its prostate cancer treatment xenograft studies with its lead peptide FT-002a in a novel oral formulation in combination with standard of care hormonal-targeting therapy. Oral FT-002a significantly augmented the anti-tumour activity of enzalutamide (Xtandi^®) the market-leading androgen receptor inhibitor, in models of indolent and aggressive prostate cancers.

Prostate cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer in men. Whilst most cases do not shorten life expectancy, advanced prostate cancer remains incurable. Hormone therapy remains the cornerstone of treatment; however, tumours eventually find ways of overcoming treatment and start to grow and spread. Co-therapies that can reinvigorate cancer treatments can provide vital clinical avenues to enhance tumour cell sensitivity, as well as reversing resistance to standard cancer therapies.

Dr Bomi Framroze, Chief Executive Officer of HBCI explains: "The ability of cancer to hack the iron metabolism pathways is an important driver of tumour growth and spread, and a means by which cancers can overcome the effects of treatment. Our lead peptide candidate, FT-002a, holds exciting potential to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapy and improve the health and wellness of cancer patients."

Higher levels of iron are needed by cancer cells to support growth and spread. In addition to elevated levels of tumour regression, FT-002a demonstrated a significant decrease in biomarkers of free iron in prostate cancer tumour cells, validating the proposed mode of action.

The combination of these promising results with the inherent safety profile of peptidyl drugs means HBCI is well positioned to make an IND submission for its oral co-therapy for prostate cancer treatment in Q4 2025.