A groundbreaking study by researchers at UNSW Sydney and the Children’s Cancer Institute has uncovered the potential of an existing drug to significantly improve survival rates for children with high-risk neuroblastoma—a rare but deadly childhood cancer. The research, published in Nature Communications, suggests that the drug TETA (triethylenetetramine), commonly used to manage excess copper in the body, could become a game-changer in cancer treatment by both weakening tumors and enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight back.
Neuroblastoma accounts for 15% of childhood cancer deaths. For children diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, survival rates are grim—only 50% survive the initial diagnosis, and for those who relapse, survival rates drop to just 10%. Current treatments, including Anti-GD2 antibody therapy, rely heavily on the strength of a patient’s immune system to be effective.
The research team demonstrated that TETA, marketed as Cuprior, can redistribute copper within the body to target tumors. This drug acts like a “Robin Hood,” drawing copper away from tumors—which use it to grow—and transferring it to immune cells, such as neutrophils, which are critical for fighting infections and healing injuries.
According to Associate Professor Orazio Vittorio, the study’s lead researcher, this dual-action mechanism weakens the tumor and strengthens the immune system, enabling it to respond more effectively to immunotherapy.
“When we combine it with the immunotherapy currently used for neuroblastoma, we can increase the survival rate for high-risk cases from 10% to 50%.” A/Prof. Vittorio said.
Despite the promising findings, researchers cautioned against increasing dietary copper intake or using supplements as a substitute for the drug. Without TETA, additional copper could inadvertently fuel tumor growth.
Lead study author Dr. Jourdin Rouaen highlighted the advantages of repurposing an existing drug. Traditional cancer drug development can take up to 13 years and cost billions of dollars. By leveraging an already approved medication, the timeline and costs for making this treatment available could be significantly reduced.
The research also underscored the underappreciated role of neutrophils in cancer immunotherapy. As non-toxic and free of major side effects, TETA represents a promising evolution in cancer treatment, with potential for integration into routine care within a few years, pending successful clinical trials.
The next step for the research team involves a multi-year clinical trial, which is set to begin next year. If successful, TETA could pave the way for improved survival rates and better quality of life for children battling high-risk neuroblastoma.
This breakthrough not only brings hope to families affected by this devastating disease but also emphasizes the value of innovation and collaboration in healthcare research. As researchers continue to explore the potential of TETA, the findings serve as a reminder of the importance of advancing treatments that are both effective and accessible.
The promising results of copper therapy open new doors in the fight against childhood cancer. This discovery highlights the critical need for skilled healthcare professionals, particularly in oncology, to support the development and implementation of cutting-edge treatments. For those considering a career in healthcare, particularly in oncology and pediatric care, now is the time to explore opportunities, including GP jobs and roles in clinical research, to contribute to life-saving advancements like this one.
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