Researchers have developed an experimental antibody that targets triple-negative breast cancer, one of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant forms of the disease. The antibody focuses on a protein called SFRP2, which helps tumors grow, survive chemotherapy, and evade the immune system.
The treatment works by blocking SFRP2, which flips tumor-supporting immune cells called macrophages back into a cancer-fighting state and reactivates exhausted T-cells. In animal studies, it reduced tumor growth, prevented the spread of cancer to the lungs, and killed cancer cells resistant to standard chemotherapy.
Because the antibody accumulates mainly in tumors and not healthy tissue, it may have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. It also shows potential for other cancers, like osteosarcoma. The therapy has been licensed to a biotech company, and plans are underway for the first human clinical trials.