Portage Biotech (PRTG) Shares Surge on Promising Mesothelioma Data
Shares of Portage Biotech Inc. (PRTG) jumped 29% after the company presented new preclinical data for its mesothelioma treatment, PORT-7, at the European Lung Cancer Congress held in Paris from March 26–29.
Encouraging Results for PORT-7
PORT-7, a selective Adenosine A2B receptor inhibitor, demonstrated significant potential in a mesothelioma murine model. The compound not only showed strong single-agent activity, but when combined with an anti-PD1 antibody, it achieved over 90% tumor growth inhibition.
The study also revealed increased infiltration of immune effector cells in the tumor microenvironment, underscoring the potential of PORT-7 as a novel immunotherapy strategy for treating mesothelioma — a highly aggressive cancer with limited therapeutic options.
PORT-6 and Future Strategy
In parallel, Portage is advancing PORT-6, a compound designed to inhibit the A2A adenosine receptor. The company plans to combine PORT-6 with PORT-7 in a future clinical trial aimed at delivering a dual blockade of adenosine-driven immunosuppression.
This approach is intended to further stimulate the immune system and enhance immunotherapy efficacy in solid tumors.
Market Response
The surge in Portage Biotech’s (PRTG) stock price reflects investor optimism following the promising preclinical results. These findings suggest a potential step forward in the treatment of mesothelioma and possibly other solid tumors.