Overview
- The CNIO group led by Mariano Barbacid reports that a three-inhibitor regimen eradicated pancreatic tumors in a specific genetically engineered mouse model, with the study published in PNAS after a reported rejection by Nature.
- The combination targets KRAS along with EGFR and STAT3 pathways, and includes an experimental STAT3 degrader not yet used clinically, raising availability and toxicity questions despite one component already in large-scale human trials.
- Researchers plan expanded studies in mice with different genotypes and in metastatic disease, alongside reformulating compounds to lower toxicity, with a clearer picture of human trial readiness expected around 2028–2029.
- Fundación CRIS launched a rapid fundraising drive that has gathered about €2.3 million, while Barbacid’s team has pursued patent protection and set up Vega Oncotargets to support preclinical development.
- Independent experts praise the preclinical data but urge restraint in public messaging as patient inquiries surge, and Vega Oncotargets has softened promotional language on its website to reflect the early stage.