Oxford Cannabinoid Technologies Advances Cannabinoid-Based Cancer Treatment

Oxford Cannabinoid Technologies Plc (OCTP) has announced an expansion of its research and development efforts to focus on a new cancer treatment derived from cannabinoids. This initiative aims to develop a novel immunotherapy agent, potentially the first of its kind, that could be administered in pill form to treat solid tumors, offering an alternative to existing therapies

The discovery of this potential cancer treatment emerged from OCTP's extensive library of nearly 500 cannabinoid derivatives, following an exclusive licensing agreement with Canopy Growth. During a recent investor meeting, Dr. Valentino Parravicini, OCTP's Chief Scientific Officer, highlighted the promising results of initial in vitro and in vivo studies, suggesting significant potential for the new molecule

Immunotherapy leverages the body's immune system to combat cancer, with current methods including monoclonal antibodies and checkpoint inhibitors. However, these treatments are not always suitable for all patients and can lead to side effects such as fatigue and autoimmune complications. The new compound by OCTP aims to overcome these limitations by enhancing the immune response within the tumor microenvironment

Dr. Parravicini explained that the new treatment works by releasing the 'handbrake' that cancer imposes on a patient's immunity, thus enabling the immune cells to attack the tumor more effectively. This approach could transform the tumor's microenvironment from 'cold' to 'hot,' allowing cytotoxic cells to actively target and kill cancer cells

Looking ahead, OCTP plans further in vitro and in vivo studies, followed by pharmacological safety evaluations, with the final candidate selection anticipated in 2024. Clarissa Sowemimo-Coker, OCTP's CEO, expressed optimism about the potential impact of cannabinoid-based medicines, emphasizing the urgent need for new cancer treatments that are less harmful and more cost-effective than existing options