New York, September 16, 2025 — Leads & Copy — UTR Therapeutics Inc. announced the peer-reviewed publication of preclinical data in Frontiers in Pharmacology, showcasing the efficacy of its lead candidate UTRxM1-18 in aggressive pancreatic cancer models. The findings support the company’s Investigational New Drug (IND) submission to the FDA, filed in May 2025.
The study revealed dose-dependent tumor regression, complete pathological responses at the highest tested dose, and significant inhibition of liver, lung, and brain metastases in preclinical pancreatic cancer models. UTRxM1-18 is designed to directly destabilize c-MYC mRNA, a transcription factor long considered “undruggable,” using engineered 3′UTR elements.
The therapeutic utilizes proprietary iron-oxide nanocages for delivery, enabling broad tumor biodistribution and penetration of metastatic sites. The company plans to initiate a Phase 1 trial of UTRxM1-18 in patients with advanced c-MYC–driven tumors, pending regulatory approvals.
Dr. Chidiebere U Awah MD PhD, CEO of UTR Therapeutics, stated that the data provide compelling evidence of efficacy and safety, supporting the advancement into first-in-human trials. Dr. David Asuzu, Chief Medical Officer, added that UTRxM1-18 offers a new therapeutic modality for previously untreatable cancers.
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Source: UTR Therapeutics Inc.
