On May 28, 2025 Theralase Technologies Inc. (TSXV: TLT) (OTCQB: TLTFF) ("Theralase" or the "Company"), a clinical stage pharmaceutical company pioneering light, radiation, sound and drug-activated therapeutics for the treatment of cancer, bacteria and viruses reported promising new preclinical results (Press release, Theralase, MAY 28, 2025, View Source [SID1234653882]). The Company’s latest research demonstrates that radiation-activated Rutherrin is up to 100 times more effective at destroying cancer cells than radiation therapy alone in comparable models.
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This data will be showcased at the 2025 American Society for Radiation Oncology ("ASTRO") 67th Annual Meeting, the world’s largest gathering of radiation oncology professionals, taking place in late September in San Francisco, California. ASTRO has selected the Theralase abstract titled, "Rutherrin Activated by Radiation Therapy Induces Synergistic Tumor Regression through Direct Destruction and Immune Activation in Multiple Preclinical Cancer Models", for presentation in a scientific poster session.
The study highlights the potent anti-cancer effects of Rutherrin—a ruthenium-based small molecule drug formulated with recombinant human transferrin for intravenous administration. Once activated by ionizing radiation through a process known as Radio Dynamic Therapy ("RDT"), Rutherrin initiates a two-phase cancer-killing response: the generation of Reactive Oxygen Species ("ROS") for immediate cytotoxicity, followed by Immunogenic Cell Death ("ICD") to stimulate a durable immune response.
Key Findings from the Preclinical Research:
Selective Tumor Targeting: Rutherrin preferentially accumulates in tumor tissues, sparing healthy cells.
Blood-Brain Barrier Penetration: Demonstrated 10x higher concentrations in Glio Blastoma Multiforme ("GBM") tumors than in healthy brain tissue.
Synergistic Mechanism: Combines direct tumor cell destruction with robust immune activation.
Improved Survival Rates: Statistically significant survival benefits compared to radiation therapy alone.
Resistance Overcoming: Effectively inhibits mechanisms associated with multidrug and radiation resistance.
Adaptive Immune Activation: Induces long-term immunity, as evidenced by resistance to tumor rechallenge.
Mark Roufaiel, Ph.D., research scientist at Theralase commented, "These results are highly encouraging. Rutherrin not only enhances the effectiveness of radiation therapy, but also activates a sustained immune response, offering a powerful, dual-action strategy against aggressive and treatment-resistant cancers."
Arkady Mandel, M.D., Ph.D., D.Sc., Chief Scientific Officer of Theralase, added, "Our focus is to bring this innovative platform to clinical application. Rutherrin represents a major advancement in oncologic treatment, potentially enabling radiation oncologists to dramatically improve patient outcomes. This research provides a strong foundation for integrating Rutherrin with existing cancer therapies to deliver more effective, long-lasting solutions."
Roger DuMoulin-White, B.Sc., P.Eng., Pro.Dir., President and Chief Executive Officer of Theralase, stated, "Based on this compelling data, we are fully committed to completing GLP toxicology studies in 2025. This critical milestone will support the launch of clinical studies in early 2026 targeting GBM, lung, pancreatic, lymphoma and colorectal cancers. We’re excited to continue advancing Rutherrin toward commercialization and transforming cancer care."
About ASTRO
Founded in 1958, ASTRO’s mission is to advance the practice of radiation oncology by promoting excellence in patient care, providing opportunities for educational and professional development, promoting research, disseminating research results and representing radiation oncology in a rapidly evolving health care environment.
The ASTRO Annual Meeting is the premier event in radiation oncology, bringing together leading scientists, clinicians and industry partners to share groundbreaking research and technological innovations. The 2025 meeting in San Francisco will showcase cutting-edge advances in radiation biology, translational medicine and cancer therapeutics.
About Rutherrin
Rutherrin is a patented formulation of Theralase’s lead ruthenium-based small molecule (Ruvidar) combined with recombinant human transferrin making it suitable for intravenous delivery. It has the ability to selectively accumulate in cancer cells versus healthy cells and when radiation-activated provide a one-two punch to cancer, by first destroying the cancer cell through oxidative stress and then activating the immune system for destruction of residual cancer cells. Rutherrin is slated to enter clinical studies in early 2026 for the destruction of deadly cancers; including: brain, lung, pancreatic, colorectal and lymphoma.