Highlights

RAC shares rose around 48%, following the announcement of key cancer research findings.
Discovery identifies primary mechanism of action of compound (E,E)-bisantrene (RCDS1).
Findings expected to guide targeted clinical applications and potential partnerships.

Race Oncology Ltd (ASX:RAC) saw its shares jump more than 48% in afternoon trading on Thursday, at AUD 4.61, after the company announced a significant breakthrough in its cancer research. The company revealed that it had identified the primary mechanism of action of its compound (E,E)-bisantrene, also known as RCDS1.

Managing Director Dr Daniel Tillett described the discovery as an important milestone, noting that RCDS1 acts primarily by binding to G4-DNA and RNA structures. This mechanism differs from the traditional chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin, offering new insights into how the drug may be best applied in clinical settings.

Race Oncology explained that research into bisantrene had largely ceased in the late 1980s, leaving limited understanding of its interaction with DNA. The company applied modern scientific techniques to reassess the compound, initially testing RCDS1 across a broad panel of cancer cells alongside both historical and contemporary anticancer drugs.

The identification of RCDS1’s primary mechanism offers several advantages. By understanding how the drug functions at a molecular level, researchers can more precisely determine which cancer types or sub-types are likely to respond. This targeted approach reduces the need for extensive trial-and-error testing across multiple drugs and cancer types.

Additionally, knowledge of the mechanism could facilitate the identification of synergistic drug combinations, streamlining future clinical trials and improving the potential efficacy of treatments. The findings are also expected to support Race Oncology in discussions with large pharmaceutical companies for potential partnerships.

The company plans to carry out additional preclinical studies and assess the most valuable commercial opportunities for RCDS1.