As previously reported, Hamlet BioPharma has achieved a groundbreaking scientific discovery related to Alpha1H, the company’s lead drug candidate for the treatment of bladder cancer. In collaboration with Lund University, a new study (published in Life Science Alliance) has revealed how Alpha1H acts inside tumor cells (New scientific advances for Alpha1H highlight the unique discovery pipeline and drug development potential for the treatment of bladder cancer – Hamlet BioPharma). The research shows that Alpha1H targets the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) – a vast membrane system in the cell – and remodels this structure. The process can be compared to a fishing net being tightened around its contents, which helps dying tumor cells encapsulate toxic components. This mechanism may explain why Alpha1H effectively kills tumor cells while sparing healthy tissue.
Key insights from the study:
- Alpha1H binds to the tumor cells’ ER (the cell’s “command center”) and induces dramatic restructuring of this membrane system.
- The ER network collapses like a net, preventing the leakage of toxic substances when the tumor cell dies.
- This mechanism contributes to low toxicity: harmful substances are retained inside the dying tumor cell instead of damaging surrounding healthy tissue.
- The discovery was made possible by advanced imaging technologies and close collaboration with Lund University, underscoring Hamlet BioPharma’s scientific excellence and efficient drug development platform.
Strategic significance for Hamlet BioPharma
This scientific breakthrough highlights the therapeutic potential of Alpha1H in several ways:
- Validates Alpha1H: A clearly mapped mechanism of action increases confidence in Alpha1H’s efficacy and safety profile.
- Competitive edge: Alpha1H’s unique mechanism of attacking tumor cells distinguishes it from existing therapies, potentially giving it an advantage in the market and strengthening its patent position.
- Enhanced credibility: A mechanistic understanding of how Alpha1H works provides greater assurance to investors and potential partners – the company can now more clearly demonstrate why Alpha1H shows such promising effects in bladder cancer.
- Platform for expansion: This insight can be leveraged to optimize future clinical trials and explore Alpha1H’s potential in other cancer indications, expanding its possible future applications.
Bladder cancer affects over 600,000 people worldwide each year, particularly older men. Hamlet BioPharma’s discovery is highly encouraging and may hopefully lead to treatments that are more effective and come with fewer side effects for those affected.
For more information, please contact
Catharina Svanborg, CEO and founder, Hamlet BioPharma AB
Phone: +46 709 42 65 49,
catharina.svanborg@hamletpharma.com
Gabriela Godaly, Chairman of the Board
Phone: +46 338 13 44
Gabriela.godaly@med.lu.se
