The rapid ascent of Summit Therapeutics (NASDAQ: SMMT), driven by the success of its targeted NSCLC therapy ivonescimab, has shined a spotlight on the growing potential of precision oncology. While Summit captured attention with its dramatic Phase 3 results, other companies are emerging with equally promising, innovative approaches to cancer treatment. Among these is Silexion Therapeutics (NASDAQ: SLXN), a company focused on overcoming one of oncology’s toughest challenges: KRAS-driven cancers.
KRAS mutations are some of the most difficult to treat in oncology, playing a key role in highly aggressive cancers such as pancreatic, colorectal, and lung cancers. Although some small-molecule KRAS inhibitors have made progress, they are limited in scope, often targeting specific mutations like KRAS G12C, which is present in only a subset of patients. Silexion is taking a broader and more innovative approach by using RNA interference (RNAi) technology to silence a wider range of KRAS mutations, offering hope for cancers that have been notoriously difficult to treat.
Silexion’s cutting-edge LODER™ platform enables precise delivery of siRNA directly to the tumor, silencing KRAS mutations at the genetic level. This localized approach not only enhances the treatment’s efficacy but also minimizes the systemic side effects that typically come with more generalized cancer therapies. In particular, Silexion’s lead candidate, SIL-204, is optimized to target pan-KRAS G12x mutations, which are found across a broad spectrum of cancers, including pancreatic, lung, and colorectal cancers.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with very limited treatment options and low survival rates. Silexion’s RNAi technology has shown significant promise in tackling this challenging cancer. In Phase 2 trials for locally advanced pancreatic cancer, the company’s LODER™ platform demonstrated a 9.3-month improvement in overall survival when combined with standard chemotherapy. In some cases, tumors that were previously deemed inoperable became operable after treatment, a breakthrough that could transform how pancreatic cancer is managed in the future.
Despite its innovative technology and positive clinical results, Silexion’s market valuation remains modest at just $9.4 million, largely due to its recent SPAC merger. However, many see this as an undervaluation, especially when compared to the inflated valuations of other players in the sector. Should Silexion report positive outcomes in its upcoming Phase 2/3 trials for SIL-204, it could experience a significant upward revaluation, much like what has been seen with Summit Therapeutics.
While Summit’s ivonescimab is focused on overcoming resistance in NSCLC, Silexion’s broader approach to KRAS mutations could open doors to treating multiple aggressive cancers that currently have limited options. The success of Summit has shown that there is enormous potential for companies that can effectively target resistance mechanisms in cancer treatment. Silexion is positioned to be one of the next precision oncology companies to watch as it advances through clinical development.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as financial, investment or any form of professional advice, recommendation or endorsement. Please review the full documentation detailing financial compensation disclosures and disclaimers the article is subject to. The Author, Global Markets News Network, is a commercial digital brand compensated to provide coverage of news and developments of the company aforementioned as detailed in the full documentation and it is thus subject to conflicts of interest.