University of Auckland Cancer Drug Shows Promise in Lab Tests

Researchers at the University of Auckland have reported early laboratory results for a new cancer drug that achieved a 30‑60 % cure rate in model tumours. The work, led by Associate Professors Jeff Smaill and Adam Patterson together with Malaghan Institute Professor Ian Hermans, focuses on lung cancer but could be applied to other tumour types.

The experimental therapy works by boosting the body's immune response, converting “cold” tumours that lack immune cells into “hot” tumours that attract immune attack. The team has formed a spin‑out company, Stave Therapeutics, which secured backing from Unruly Partners. They aim to begin the first human clinical trials within the next two years.