PRISM MarketView Showcases Innovators Driving the Future of Breast Cancer Treatment for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
There is a reason that Breast Cancer Awareness Month has been recognized every October for the past four decades: 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, according to the National Cancer Institute. The two biggest risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and aging. And more than 2 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, based on World Health Organization reports.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international campaign to promote early detection and awareness of breast cancer, which has a 99% five-year relative survival rate when found in its earliest stages, according to National Breast Cancer Foundation. Mammograms and regular doctors’ visits have bolstered rates of early detection in addition to notable research.
Advances in breast cancer treatment are saving lives
Breast cancer is no longer a death sentence.
Recent developments in treatment include the use of immunotherapy to treat triple-negative breast cancer – an aggressive form of cancer – and potentially other cancers as well. In addition, antibody-drug conjugates are being increasingly used to support improved survival rates for those with metastatic breast cancer, which means it has spread beyond the breast to the brain, liver, lungs or other areas of the body. Two significant antibody-drug conjugates showing effective results are sacituzumab govitecan (Trodelvy) and trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd; Enhertu).
In addition, genetic testing advancements are helping physicians better customize treatments for each patient. Ongoing trials are investigating circulating tumor DNA’s [ctDNA] potential role in breast cancer, and precision medicine that has pinpointed specific mutations that respond well to targeted therapies, which often come with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.
These advancements lead to better treatments, better quality of life and better survival rates for breast cancer patients.
Companies in the PRISM MarketView Spotlight:
Anixa Biosciences (NASDAQ: ANIX) – Anixa is developing a breast cancer vaccine targeting “retired” proteins, such as α-lactalbumin, linked to triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Currently in Phase 1 trials in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic, the vaccine has shown early positive immune responses and safety. Further data will be presented in November 2024 at the SITC Annual Meeting. As it relates to its upcoming Phase 2 trial, Anixa recently provided that they will evaluate the efficacy of the vaccine administered in the neoadjuvant (before surgery) setting, in combination with chemotherapy and Keytruda (pembrolizumab). The goal of neoadjuvant therapy is to reduce tumor burden and to prevent tumor recurrence with the intent to improve survival. This will be expected to begin in 2025 and last approximately 2-3 years. As of June 30, 2024, the company has zero debt and cash position of $23M.
Atossa Therapeutics (NASDAQ: ATOS) – Atossa’s lead asset, (Z)-endoxifen, is in Phase 2 trials, aiming to reduce breast cancer risk by lowering breast tissue density and preventing recurrence. The Karisma-Endoxifen study, with data expected in Q4 2024, is investigating its potential to reduce mammographic breast density. Atossa is also supporting the SMART study, which could lead to a Phase 3 trial for breast cancer prevention. From a financial perspective, ATOS shares have traded up over 45% YTD, the company recently joined the Russell 3000 and Atossa ended its second quarter of 2024 with $79.5M in cash and cash equivalents and no debt.
IceCure Medical (NASDAQ: ICCM) – IceCure develops cryoablation systems for treating benign and cancerous tumors, including breast cancer. Its ProSense® system offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgery. IceCure recently presented promising results at the 2024 European Society of Breast Imaging (EUSOBI) Conference, highlighting its potential to improve patient outcomes. In the company’s most recent quarterly financial release, it was reported that the ProSense® System and probe sales saw 20% growth for the first half of 2024, reflecting continued adoption in the US and other global markets.
Immutep Limited (NASDAQ: IMMP) – Immutep is a clinical-stage company pioneering LAG-3 immunotherapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases. The company recently completed enrollment in a Phase II trial investigating eftilagimod alpha (efti) in combination with paclitaxel for breast cancer. The trial aligns with the FDA’s Project Optimus initiative to optimize dosage regimens. Additionally, the company recently received a $3.6M R&D tax incentive from the French government and qualifies for cash rebates from the Australian government’s R&D tax incentive program. The funds will be used to support the ongoing and planned global clinical development of eftilagimod alpha and IMP761.
Olema Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: OLMA) – Olema’s lead candidate, palazestrant (OP-1250), is in Phase 3 trials for ER+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer. Palazestrant, a complete estrogen receptor antagonist (CERAN) and selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD), has shown promising efficacy and favorable tolerability in trials, earning FDA Fast Track designation. As of June 30, 2024, the company has $239M in cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities.
Processa Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: PCSA) – Processa is developing NGC-Cap, a next-generation chemotherapy agent, in a Phase 2 trial for metastatic breast cancer. The trial compares NGC-Cap to standard monotherapy capecitabine and aims to determine the optimal dosage with fewer side effects, in line with the FDA’s Project Optimus initiative. Interim results are expected in mid-2025. As of June 30, 2024 the company has $5.6M in cash and cash equivalents.
These companies are leading the charge in developing new treatments, offering hope to breast cancer patients worldwide.
