22 June 2022 – Race Oncology Limited (“Race”) is pleased to share further interim results from its preclinical melanoma research program (ASX announcement: 19 March 2021). The program’s objective was to explore the use of Zantrene® (bisantrene dihydrochloride) in novel drug combinations for the treatment of drug and immunotherapy resistant melanomas using cell and animal models.

Used at low concentrations, Zantrene was found to enhance cancer immunotherapy in three distinct and complementary ways: (1) direct killing of melanoma cells; (2) activation of immune cells targeting the tumour, and (3) reducing the expression of immune evasion genes in the tumour.

“The results of this preclinical research demonstrate the potential of Zantrene to enhance immunotherapy outcomes in melanoma. While checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionised the treatment of advanced melanomas, far too many patients show no, or only a short-term response, to these treatments. Zantrene has shown its ability to work in three complementary ways to enhance the anti-melanoma immune response. I continue to be amazed by the novel utility we’re seeing for Zantrene as a potential new cancer treatment.”

Race CSO Dr Daniel Tillett

“Its pleasing to see continued reaffirmation of Zantrene’s utility in suppressing and potentially improving cancer outcomes, in this case against Melanoma, which remains a challenging cancer. I look forward to us progressing clinical translation of this opportunity to assess improving patient outcomes.”

Race CEO & MD Phillip Lynch