GRAND CAYMAN - Silexion Therapeutics Corp. (NASDAQ: SLXN), a biotech firm specializing in RNA interference (RNAi) therapies, has reported significant advancements in its preclinical studies for SIL-204, a second-generation siRNA candidate aimed at treating KRAS-driven cancers. The company announced today that its new microparticle formulation of SIL-204 has shown substantial tumor reduction in mouse models of human pancreatic cancer, which is characterized by the KRAS G12D mutation.
According to the recent findings, SIL-204 encapsulated in an extended-release formulation led to significant anti-tumor activity and high induction of tumor necrosis in the treated mice. This represents an improvement over previous formulations, with the new PLGA microparticles providing a superior extended-release profile, potentially enhancing the therapeutic impact of SIL-204.
Silexion plans to initiate toxicology studies for SIL-204 in the coming months and is preparing to move into Phase 2/3 clinical trials in the first half of 2026. The initial focus will be on locally advanced pancreatic cancer, which is known for its high mortality rate. Additionally, the company intends to begin preclinical studies on colorectal cancer models.
Ilan Hadar, Chairman and CEO of Silexion, expressed confidence in the potential of SIL-204, citing the optimized cellular uptake and improved extended-release formulation as significant developments in the drug's progress.
Silexion's first-generation product, LODER, has already shown promise in a Phase 2 trial for non-resectable pancreatic cancer. With SIL-204, the company aims to target a broader range of KRAS mutations and build on its commitment to addressing challenging cancers.
The information provided here is based on a press release statement from Silexion Therapeutics Corp. It's important to note that these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ from those projected. The company cautions against placing undue reliance on these statements, which are based on information available as of the date they were made.
In other recent news, Silexion Therapeutics Corp reported enhanced results from a Phase 2 trial of LODER™ in treating locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC). The study indicated a 56% objective response rate among patients and a 67% increase in resectability for previously non-resectable tumors. The trial's findings suggest LODER, when used with standard-of-care chemotherapy, could significantly improve the chances of surgical intervention in cases where pancreatic cancer was deemed inoperable.
In addition to these encouraging results, Silexion is progressing with its next-generation product, SIL-204, which targets a wider array of KRAS mutations associated with various cancers. Preclinical models have demonstrated SIL-204's improved stability and enhanced ability to reach and silence the KRAS oncogene effectively.
In other developments, the company announced the immediate resignation of board member Ilan Shiloah due to competing time demands. His departure leaves vacancies on the audit, compensation, and corporate governance and nominating committees. This follows the company's recent merger with Moringa Acquisition Corp and a name change from Biomotion Sciences to Silexion Therapeutics Corp. These updates highlight the evolving corporate landscape of Silexion Therapeutics Corp.
InvestingPro Insights
As Silexion Therapeutics Corp. (NASDAQ: SLXN) reports progress in its preclinical studies for SIL-204, investors should be aware of the company's current market position. According to InvestingPro data, Silexion's market capitalization stands at a modest $4.37 million, reflecting its early-stage status in the biotech sector.
The stock's recent performance has been challenging, with InvestingPro data showing a significant 95.36% decline over the past three months. This downturn aligns with the company's developmental stage and the inherent risks associated with biotech firms working on novel therapies.
InvestingPro Tips highlight that Silexion's stock is currently trading near its 52-week low and has experienced high price volatility. These factors may present both risks and potential opportunities for investors interested in the company's progress with SIL-204 and its broader RNAi platform.
It's worth noting that Silexion does not pay a dividend, which is common for early-stage biotech companies that typically reinvest capital into research and development. This aligns with the company's focus on advancing its pipeline, including the promising SIL-204 candidate.
For investors seeking a more comprehensive analysis, InvestingPro offers additional tips and metrics to better understand Silexion's financial health and market position. There are 10 more InvestingPro Tips available for SLXN, providing deeper insights into the company's performance and potential.
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