Roquefort Therapeutics PLC (LSE:ROQ, OTCQB:ROQAF) said it has reached a pivotal point in its cancer treatment research with its mesodermal killer (MK) cell programme showing significant promise.
MK cells have a dual attack strategy against cancer: They destroy cancer cells and boost natural killer (NK) cells, enhancing the body's own cancer defences.
Roquefort's research has demonstrated that MK cells amplify the cancer-fighting abilities of NK cells. When combined, they offer a two-fold increase in cancer cell destruction. This effect has been statistically proven in ovarian cancer, acute myeloid leukaemia, and multiple myeloma.
These findings position MK cells as a potential game changer in oncology, investors were told.
"This is an excellent set of results which demonstrates the company's strategy to select and acquire novel medicines and to rapidly develop them to reach significant commercial milestones," said Roquefort chief executive Ajan Reginald.
"Our MK cells combined with natural killer cells show a profound cancer-killing effect across solid tumours, lymphoma and leukaemia.
"The NK cell activator is a highly attractive market niche with a number of recent high-value transactions. Today's results build on the excellent results we have reported for our siRNA and Midkine programmes."
It is hoped they could also attract attention from major pharmaceutical companies interested in innovative cancer therapies. Notably, similar advancements have led to significant deals, such as Sanofi's US$1.4 billion partnership with Innate Pharma (OTC:IPHYF, EPA:IPH).
Roquefort Therapeutics is now moving forward with more in-depth studies. These will further explore how MK cells can activate NK cells and target cancer more effectively.
"Our portfolio is attracting interest from big pharma and private equity, and in line with our strategy, we are engaged in discussions with these potential partners. In the meantime, we will continue to deliver these value-enhancing milestones across our programs on time and within budget," said CEO Reginald.