Ernexa Therapeutics presents data on cell therapy treatment at AACR meeting

Ernexa Therapeutics (ERNA) presented new data at the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025 in Chicago on April 28. The study showed how engineered cells derived from stem cells could transform the treatment of ovarian cancer. The data revealed that these engineered cells, which release powerful immune-boosting cytokines, not only shrink tumors but also help the body’s immune system to attack the cancer more effectively. This new data builds on earlier work led by Dr. Andreeff, which showed the potential of mesenchymal stem cells in cancer treatment. In earlier trials, engineered MSCs helped slow the growth of ovarian cancer in patients, but they have not been widely used due to their immune-suppressing nature and other challenges. To address these issues, Ernexa engineered induced pluripotent stem cells and transformed them into induced MSCs. These iMSCs were engineered to secrete IL-7 and IL-15, two cytokines that help boost the immune system’s ability to fight cancer. This is the technology behind Ernexa’s lead product ERNA-101. In this study using mice with ovarian cancer, the iMSCs significantly slowed tumor growth and improved survival rates. The treatment led to a greater presence of immune cells in the tumor, including T cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages – all key players in the body’s defense against cancer. In additional tests, the iMSCs also helped T cells grow and multiply, even in cases of drug-resistant cancer cells. Further tests have shown that these iMSCs are much better at growing and multiplying compared to traditional MSCs. Overall, the study demonstrated significant promise for ERNA-101 as a more effective, accessible, and scalable treatment for patients in the future. It reinforces Ernexa’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of cancer treatment with innovative and effective therapies.