Prostate Cancer Breakthrough: New Drug Shows 'Remarkable' Results

An innovative immunotherapy drug, VIR-5500, is showing "remarkable" results in an early-stage trial for advanced prostate cancer. This treatment works by engaging the body's immune T-cells to attack cancer cells, a significant advancement as prostate cancer has historically shown limited benefit from immunotherapies.

The drug employs a unique "cloaking device" that keeps it inactive until it reaches the tumor, thereby reducing the risk of severe side effects. This mechanism also allows the drug to remain in the bloodstream longer, potentially enabling fewer doses for patients.

In the trial involving 58 men with advanced prostate cancer unresponsive to other treatments, nearly half (45%) of those evaluated at the highest dose saw their tumors shrink or halt growth. Furthermore, 88% experienced only very mild side effects.

Specific cases highlighted dramatic improvements, including a 63-year-old man whose liver lesions were "completely resolved." A 70-year-old patient saw external tumors disappear, reporting an "excellent" quality of life. A 77-year-old participant achieved "undetectable" PSA levels after 17 cycles.

Researchers presented these findings at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Genitourinary Cancers Symposium. Professor Johann de Bono expressed optimism, stating that the drug could increase the likelihood of a cure for advanced prostate cancer in the future.

This phase 1 trial is ongoing, with the drug progressing to larger studies. Experts believe VIR-5500 could offer a much-needed new treatment option for patients with advanced prostate cancer who urgently require more effective therapies.