Genprex, Inc. has announced a sponsored research agreement with the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center to investigate Reqorsa® Gene Therapy (quaratusugene ozeplasmid) in combination with ALK-inhibitors for ALK-EML4 positive translocated lung cancer. The collaboration also involves ALK Positive, a non-profit organization focused on improving the life expectancy and quality of life for ALK-positive (ALK+) lung cancer patients.
The research aims to build on preclinical data indicating that Reqorsa, which delivers the TUSC2 tumor suppressor gene, may be effective in combination with ALK inhibitors. Approximately 5% of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) have ALK translocations, and 82% of all NSCLCs have decreased amounts of the TUSC2 tumor suppressor protein.
Preclinical Evidence Supports Reqorsa's Potential
At the April 2024 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting, researchers from the Rogel Cancer Center's Judith Tam ALK Lung Cancer Research Initiative presented data showing that Reqorsa induced apoptosis in alectinib-resistant EML4-ALK positive NSCLC cell lines. Alectinib is a commonly used ALK-inhibitor. The study found that overexpressing TUSC2 via Reqorsa inhibited the ability of ALK+ lung cancer cells to form colonies, decreasing cell growth and proliferation through the activation of apoptotic pathways. These findings suggest that Reqorsa may be an effective treatment for patients progressing on alectinib.
Addressing Resistance in ALK+ Lung Cancer
ALK+ lung cancer, a subset of NSCLC, often affects younger, relatively healthy individuals. While ALK-targeted therapies like crizotinib, alectinib, and lorlatinib have been approved, resistance to these compounds eventually develops. The 5-year survival rate for ALK-EML4 translocated lung cancers is 40.9%, indicating a need for improved treatment options.
Reqorsa's Mechanism of Action
REQORSA (quaratusugene ozeplasmid) consists of the TUSC2 gene expressing plasmid encapsulated in non-viral nanoparticles. It is designed to deliver the functioning TUSC2 gene to cancer cells, interrupting cell signaling pathways, re-establishing apoptosis, decreasing cancer cell energy production, and modulating the immune response against cancer cells. Genprex believes that Reqorsa's unique attributes position it to improve on current therapies for patients with NSCLC, SCLC, and potentially other cancers.
