Researchers at King's College London have developed a new drug, KCL-HO-1i, which shows promise in enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy by targeting a protective mechanism used by tumors.

Professor James Arnold noted that KCL-HO-1i works by targeting an enzyme produced by macrophages, which could help immune cells and chemotherapy drugs work more effectively together.

James Spicer, another KCL professor, emphasized the importance of this research in addressing the limitations of current chemotherapy treatments and the potential of KCL-HO-1i as a companion drug.

Research indicates that chemotherapy often fails because the body's immune cells act as barriers to treatment, highlighting the need for complementary therapies like KCL-HO-1i.

Early tests published in *Science Translational Medicine* demonstrated that KCL-HO-1i increased the responsiveness of breast cancer tumors to various chemotherapy treatments.

The findings from this study were published in the journal *Science Translational Medicine*, with plans to begin human patient trials, particularly for breast cancer, within the next two years.

This study reflects a multidisciplinary effort involving Professors James Arnold, James Spicer, and Miraz Rahman, showcasing a collaborative approach to advancing cancer treatment.

To further develop KCL-HO-1i, the King's College London team has established a spin-out company named Aethox Therapeutics.

The establishment of Aethox Therapeutics aims to advance the research and application of this promising drug.