![]() Curtana Pharmaceuticals Announces Breakthrough in Pediatric Brain Cancer Treatment with Dual Studies Published in Nature CommunicationsAUSTIN, Texas - Feb. 4, 2025 - PRLog -- Curtana Pharmaceuticals, a biotechnology company focused on improving outcomes for brain cancer patients, is proud to announce the publication of two pioneering studies in Nature Communications. These studies highlight the potential of CT-179, a first-in-class OLIG2 inhibitor, in treating Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) subgroup medulloblastoma, a prevalent form of pediatric brain cancer. The findings represent a significant milestone in the fight against brain cancer and underscore the power of international collaboration.
Global Research Collaboration The studies were conducted through an international collaboration involving leading scientists from institutions in Canada, Australia, Korea, Sweden, and the United States. The research was led by Peter Dirks, MD, PhD, FRCSC, Professor of Surgery and Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto and Neurosurgeon- Key Findings The first study, OLIG2 Mediates a Rare Targetable Stem Cell Fate Transition in Sonic Hedgehog Medulloblastoma, by Desai et al. with Dr. Dirks as the senior author explores the role of OLIG2 in regulating stem cell fate transitions within SHH medulloblastoma. The research demonstrates that inhibiting OLIG2 with CT-179 effectively blocks tumor growth and recurrence by preventing cancer stem cells from transitioning to proliferative states. This groundbreaking discovery highlights OLIG2 as a critical driver of tumorigenesis and a promising therapeutic target. The second study, Suppressing Recurrence in Sonic Hedgehog Subgroup Medulloblastoma Using the OLIG2 Inhibitor CT-179, with Dr. Gershon and Prof. Day as the senior authors builds on these findings by evaluating the therapeutic potential of CT-179 in preclinical models. The study shows that CT-179 not only significantly prolongs survival but also enhances the efficacy of radiotherapy when used in combination. These results suggest that CT-179 could play a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes by targeting cancer stem cells that drive tumor recurrence. Leadership Perspectives Dr. Gregory Stein, President and CEO of Curtana Pharmaceuticals, stated: "These publications represent a major step forward in our mission to develop transformative therapies for brain cancer. The multiple collaborations with leading brain cancer researchers exemplify our commitment to advancing science through global partnerships." Dr. Peter Dirks commented: "Our findings offer a novel strategy to target cancer stem cells, providing hope for more effective treatments against aggressive brain tumors." Professor Bryan Day added: "The ability of CT-179 to cross the blood-brain barrier and target OLIG2-expressing cells opens new avenues for therapy that could significantly improve patient outcomes." Dr. Tim Gershon commented: "The ability of CT-179 to disrupt OLIG2 function represents a significant advance in our understanding of how to effectively target tumor stem cells. This approach not only holds promise for treating SHH medulloblastoma but also sets a precedent for targeting similar pathways in other cancers." Implications and Future Directions The implications of these studies are profound. By targeting OLIG2-expressing cancer stem cells, CT-179 addresses one of the primary challenges in treating SHH medulloblastoma— Curtana Pharmaceuticals plans to advance CT-179 into clinical trials to evaluate its safety and efficacy in human patients. The company is also exploring combination therapies that could further enhance treatment outcomes. About Curtana Pharmaceuticals Curtana Pharmaceuticals, founded in 2013, is a privately held, preclinical- About The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) is recognized as one of the world's foremost pediatric health-care institutions and is Canada's leading center dedicated to advancing children's health through the integration of patient care, research and education. Founded in 1875 and affiliated with the University of Toronto, SickKids is one of Canada's most research-intensive hospitals and has generated discoveries that have helped children globally. Its mission is to provide the best in complex and specialized family-centered care; pioneer scientific and clinical advancements; About QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute QIMR Berghofer is a world-leading, translational medical research institute based in Brisbane, Australia. Established in 1945, the Institute is home to almost 1,000 scientists, clinician-scientists, support staff, and students working across four key research programs of Cancer Research, Infection and Inflammation, Population Health, and Brain and Mental Health. Its state-of-the- About Emory University School of Medicine Emory University School of Medicine is a leading institution with the highest standards in education, biomedical research and patient care, with a commitment to recruiting and developing a diverse group of students and innovative leaders. Emory School of Medicine has more than 3,500 full- and part-time faculty, 605 medical students, 493 allied health students in five programs, 1,414 residents and fellows in 118 accredited programs, and 90 MD/PhD students. Medical school faculty received $700.1 million in external research funding in fiscal year 2023. The school is best known for its research and treatment in infectious disease, brain health, heart disease, cancer, transplantation, orthopaedics, pediatrics, renal disease, ophthalmology and geriatrics. For more information, visit www.med.emory.edu. End
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