New cancer drug enters human trials, offers safer way to stop tumour growth

Scientists have developed a drug that may stop tumour growth without harming healthy cells — and it’s now in human trials. (Image: Pexels)

In the search for better cancer treatments, scientists at the Francis Crick Institute and Vividion Therapeutics may have found a promising new direction. Their latest discovery — compounds that selectively block a cancer-driving interaction without harming healthy cells — has now moved into human clinical trials. If successful, this could open a safer path to treat various cancers.

Why This Discovery Matters

The RAS gene, which plays a key role in cell growth, is mutated in roughly one in five cancers. When mutated, it keeps signalling cells to grow uncontrollably.

A long-standing challenge has been how to block RAS’s cancerous signals without interfering with vital normal cell processes.

The researchers developed compounds that shut down the link between RAS and PI3K (a partner enzyme) without disabling PI3K’s other functions, such as insulin regulation.

In tests on mice, this approach halted tumour growth in RAS-mutated lung cancers, without causing dangerous side effects like high blood sugar.

They also saw benefits in HER2-mutated tumours, even where RAS was not mutated — suggesting broader potential.

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The drug candidate has now entered its first human clinical trial, where researchers will primarily test safety and side effects in patients with RAS or HER2 mutations. The trial will also explore whether combining this drug with other therapies boosts its effectiveness.

Julian Downward, head of the Oncogene Biology Lab at Crick, said, “We’ve long tried to block RAS interactions, but side effects held us back. Our approach separates the harmful from the necessary, and now we’re cautiously hopeful that it may help patients.”

What This Means for Cancer Patients

If this trial succeeds in humans, it may lead to new treatments that are more selective and less toxic — targeting tumours while preserving normal cell health.

Because RAS mutations occur across many cancer types, a successful drug could have wide applicability.

That said, this is an early step. Clinical trials often take time, and many promising drugs don’t make it all the way to approval.

What You Should Keep in Mind

Talk to your oncologist: If you or someone you know is battling cancer, this research matters — but only when it becomes clinically available.

Cancer treatment is multifaceted: New drugs like this add to the arsenal, alongside surgery, radiation, immunotherapy, and supportive care.

Stay informed, cautiously optimistic: Scientific advances are promising, but they require rigorous testing.

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In the ongoing fight against cancer, discoveries that offer greater precision and fewer side effects are especially welcome. This drug could be one such leap — a reminder that science is still advancing, and hope is never extinct.

FAQs on New Cancer Drug to Stop Tumour Growth 

What is the significance of the RAS gene in cancer?

The RAS gene plays a key role in cell growth. When mutated, it signals cells to grow uncontrollably, contributing to cancer development.

How do the new compounds work?

The compounds selectively block the interaction between RAS and PI3K, halting tumour growth without affecting PI3K’s other functions, such as insulin regulation.

What types of cancer could this drug potentially treat?

The drug could have wide applicability, particularly for cancers with RAS or HER2 mutations.

What is the current status of the drug candidate?

The drug candidate has entered its first human clinical trial to test safety, side effects, and effectiveness in combination with other therapies.

How should cancer patients approach this new research?

Patients should stay informed and discuss new research with their oncologist, while understanding that clinical availability is still pending successful trials.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.