Scientists have created a powerful new chemotherapy drug, NUC-7738, by modifying Cordycepin — a natural compound found in a Himalayan fungus traditionally used in Chinese medicine.
Normally, Cordycepin breaks down quickly in the body, limiting its cancer-fighting potential. To solve this, biotech company NuCana applied ProTide technology, chemically enhancing Cordycepin to resist breakdown and penetrate cancer cells more effectively, boosting its potency by up to 40 times.
Early lab experiments and Phase 1 clinical trials have delivered promising results with minimal side effects.
During Phase 2 trials, combining NUC-7738 with pembrolizumab helped control disease progression in 75% of patients who had run out of other treatment options.
Buoyed by these outcomes, NuCana plans to expand Phase 2 trials in 2025 and is in talks with the FDA about potential approval.