Space infrastructure company Redwire Corporation has secured a contract from Aspera Biomedicines to conduct space-based research on rebecsinib, a promising cancer treatment that recently received US Food and Drug Administration approval for first-in-human trials. The collaboration will utilize Redwire's Pharmaceutical In-space Laboratory (PIL-BOX) technology to advance development of this small-molecule adenosine deaminase acting on RNA 1 (ADAR1) inhibitor.
ADAR1 Target and Cancer Progression
ADAR1 protein expression is associated with the rapid progression of certain cancers. Aspera's previous spaceflight experiments have indicated that rebecsinib could serve as a potential "kill switch" for cancer by stopping the spread of cancer stem cells in triple-negative breast cancer organoid models.
With support from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine and NASA, Aspera has become the first company to develop an FDA investigational new drug (IND)-approved small molecule inhibitor of ADAR1 splicing. This inhibitor has potential implications for preventing recurrence and immune evasion across 20 different cancers.
Space-Based Research Mission
The latest mission will enable Aspera's researchers to examine the crystal structure of ADAR1p150 in the presence and absence of rebecsinib or intermediates. Insights from this research could be pivotal in developing new drug formulations and expanding the range of ADAR1 inhibitors. The cancer treatment investigation is scheduled for launch later in 2025.
Leveraging microgravity to expedite tumor growth, Aspera's collaboration with NASA, the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space and Axiom Space aims to test the expanded tumor indications for rebecsinib in patient-derived tumor organoids to tackle cancer deaths.
PIL-BOX Platform Track Record
The PIL-BOX platform has demonstrated significant capabilities, with 28 units flown and processed. The technology has been instrumental in growing small-batch crystals for protein-based pharmaceuticals and other molecules of pharmaceutical relevance. Previous research using this technology, carried out in collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly and Company, Butler University Indiana and ExesaLibero Pharma, has provided insights into treatments for cardiovascular conditions, diabetes and obesity.
The space-based research approach allows scientists to study cellular behavior and drug interactions under microgravity conditions, potentially providing insights not achievable in Earth-based laboratories. This initiative represents part of broader efforts within the scientific community to utilize space environments for medical advancements, particularly in understanding diseases like cancer.
