Osteosarcoma is a rare but aggressive form of bone cancer that is most common in children, teens and young adults aged 10 to 30. [
] Typically, osteosarcoma develops in the long bones—e.g. femur, tibia, humerus—although it can still occur in other parts of the body, including the pelvis and jaw.
This cancer often begins in areas of rapid bone growth, resulting in its higher prevalence among children, teenagers, and young adults. Additionally, osteosarcoma is known to metastasize quickly and has a tendency to spread to the lungs, a factor that has significantly complicated treatment and lowered survival rates.
Over the past 40 years, advancements in survival rates for osteosarcoma have been minimal. Despite the use of aggressive multimodal therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation, the five-year survival rate has remained stagnant at approximately 60-70% for localized disease. For metastatic osteosarcoma, the survival rate drops dramatically to 15-30%, underscoring the urgent need for innovation.
Currently, treatment involves tumor resection surgery combined with chemotherapy regimens like methotrexate, doxorubicin, and cisplatin. However, these treatments often come with severe side effects, and their effectiveness is limited, especially for recurrent or metastatic cases.
Resistance to chemotherapy and high rates of recurrence make the development of targeted therapies, like those pioneered by OS Therapies, a crucial step forward in improving outcomes for osteosarcoma patients.
OS Therapies is at the forefront of developing novel treatments for osteosarcoma. Our lead candidate, OST-HER2, is an immunotherapy that leverages the immune-stimulatory effects of Listeria bacteria to initiate a strong immune response targeting the HER2 protein.
This approach aims to prevent metastasis, delay recurrence, and improve overall survival rates for patients with resected, recurrent osteosarcoma.
We are currently conducting a Phase IIb clinical trial (AOST-2121) to evaluate the efficacy of OST-HER2 in patients with resected, recurrent osteosarcoma. The trial has achieved full enrollment, with patients receiving treatment across multiple Children's Oncology Group (COG) sites nationwide.
Preliminary data indicate a positive safety profile and promising clinical outcomes, bringing us closer to offering a new standard of care for osteosarcoma patients.
We invite eligible patients to participate in our ongoing clinical trials. By joining our studies, participants gain access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to the advancement of medical research.
For more information, including details about eligibility criteria and enrollment information, contact us today and our clinical trial coordinators will assist you.
Stay informed about our latest developments, including press releases, media coverage, and upcoming events, by visiting the News section on our website. We are committed to transparency and regularly share updates on our clinical trials, financial milestones, and partnerships.
