Theralase Technologies Inc (CVE:TLT) saw its lead cancer compound get a big boost as its pre-clinical successes were outlined at a prestigious conference in Portugal.
The firm's latest research findings were presented on June 12 at the 16th International Photodynamic Association (IPA) World Congress.
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The IPA has a membership of prominent clinicians and scientists and promotes the study of diagnosis and clinical treatment using light and photosensitizers.
Theralase president and chief executive Roger Dumoulin-White, said he was delighted that the firm's Dr Pavel Kaspler had presented the data to such a respected audience.
Most notably, Kaspler presented how the TLD-1433 injected intratumorally in a mouse animal model had a greater than 90% cell kill in human glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cancer treated preclinically with a low dose of X-ray.
He added: "X-ray followed by NIR laser light activation of TLD-1433 is a new and unexpected discovery by the members of our research team under the leadership of Dr. Arkady Mandel and Dr. Lothar Lilge.
He said the discovery had far reaching implications, including targeting cancers that are difficult, if not impossible, to reach with conventional laser light sources, such as GBM brain tumours or deep-tissue-related cancers.
Key takeaways of the benefits of TLD-1433 are that it is able to destroy cancer cells predominantly through necrosis at 24 hours posttreatment, and provides noticeable damage to tumours when X-ray activated.
"This initial research will allow Theralase the ability to successfully complete a phase Ib GBM clinical study for this next generation PDT technology, demonstrating a primary outcome of safety and tolerability, and a secondary outcome of pharmacokinetics,"said Dumoulin-White.
Theralase shares surged over 8% to $0.395 a share in Toronto.