Genprex Collaborators Present Positive Preclinical Data on the Use of Reqorsa® Gene Therapy for the Treatment of Lung Cancer at the 2026 AACR Annual Meeting
Rhea-AI Summary
Genprex (NASDAQ: GNPX) collaborators presented positive preclinical data for Reqorsa (quaratusugene ozeplasmid) at AACR 2026 (April 17-22). Studies showed 79% tumor shrinkage with Quar Oze plus alectinib in an ALK+ sensitive model (p=0.0135) and synergistic tumor reduction and survival benefit in an alectinib-resistant model (p=0.0001).
Additional findings: TROP2 low/PTEN high associated with primary resistance; Quar Oze restored NK cell activity, producing complete tumor regression in preclinical cohorts (up to 67%). All data are preclinical.
Positive
- Quar Oze + alectinib achieved 79% tumor shrinkage (sensitive model)
- Combination therapy showed synergistic tumor reduction and improved survival (p=0.0001)
- Complete tumor regression in up to 67% of therapeutic-treated Tusc2 KO mice
- TUSC2 restoration robustly enhanced NK cell cytotoxic markers (granzyme B, perforin)
- TROP2/PTEN biomarker signature may guide patient selection
Negative
- 50% of NSCLC cell lines and PDXOs exhibited primary resistance to TUSC2
- 20–30% of tumors in xenograft models showed resistance with no size reduction
News Market Reaction – GNPX
On the day this news was published, GNPX declined 11.15%, reflecting a significant negative market reaction. Argus tracked a peak move of +16.7% during that session. Argus tracked a trough of -17.1% from its starting point during tracking. Our momentum scanner triggered 23 alerts that day, indicating elevated trading interest and price volatility. This price movement removed approximately $1M from the company's valuation, bringing the market cap to $11.23M at that time. Trading volume was exceptionally heavy at 33.4x the daily average, suggesting significant selling pressure.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
Key Figures
Market Reality Check
Peers on Argus
GNPX’s move is flagged as up, while momentum peers APRE (-9.61%) and GLMD (-6.02%) were both down, indicating a stock-specific reaction rather than a coordinated biotech move.
Historical Context
| Date | Event | Sentiment | Move | Catalyst |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 18 | AACR data preview | Positive | -0.5% | Announced upcoming AACR posters with positive Reqorsa preclinical lung cancer data. |
| Mar 10 | Conference participation | Neutral | +1.0% | Management participation at BIO Europe Spring to discuss gene therapy programs. |
| Feb 23 | Global patent grants | Positive | +27.5% | Japanese and EU patents granted for REQORSA with PD‑1/PD‑L1 antibodies. |
| Feb 10 | Australia patent step | Positive | -1.8% | Notice of Acceptance in Australia for REQORSA plus PD‑L1 antibody patent. |
| Jan 07 | Diabetes program update | Positive | +0.0% | Reported GPX‑002 preclinical progress and upcoming IND-enabling plans for diabetes. |
Positive catalysts have produced mixed reactions, with several strong news items not consistently translating into sustained price gains.
Over the past six months, GNPX has reported multiple positive developments, including AACR preclinical data, new patents for REQORSA combinations, and clinical progress in its diabetes program. Reactions have varied: IP and patent wins on Feb 23, 2026 saw a 27.53% gain, while similarly positive AACR preview data on Mar 18, 2026 coincided with a modest decline. This AACR data release extends the same Reqorsa preclinical themes, reinforcing the lung cancer gene therapy narrative without changing the mixed historical price-response pattern.
Market Pulse Summary
The stock dropped -11.2% in the session following this news. A negative reaction despite positive preclinical signals would fit a pattern where prior favorable news, such as AACR previews and IP wins, did not always sustain upside. With shares already far below the $6.38 200‑day moving average and 97.64% under the 52‑week high, some holders may focus on dilution history, reverse-split risk from the recent proxy, or execution timelines rather than early-stage data, reinforcing sensitivity to perceived financing or listing overhangs.
Key Terms
biomarkers medical
non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) medical
patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) medical
organoids medical
reverse-phase protein array (RPPA) medical
apoptosis medical
natural killer (NK) cell medical
p value medical
AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.
TROP2 and PTEN Biomarkers May Predict Patient Response to Reqorsa® Gene Therapy
REQORSA Induced Apoptosis and Decreased Tumor Volume in ALK-EML4 Positive Translocated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cell Lines and In Vivo Mouse Studies
REQORSA Boosts Natural Killer (NK) Cell Antitumor Activity
"The identification of TROP2 and PTEN as potential biomarkers for primary resistance to REQORSA may provide invaluable insights for patient selection, enhancing our precision medicine strategy for our lung cancer clinical trials," said Ryan Confer, President and Chief Executive Officer at Genprex. "Furthermore, the demonstrated ability of REQORSA to induce apoptosis and decrease tumor volume in ALK-EML4 positive NSCLC cell lines and in vivo models, including those resistant to current ALK inhibitors such as alectinib, represents a potential opportunity for a future clinical trial. In addition, REQORSA's capacity to boost Natural Killer cell antitumor activity and immunity led to observed tumor suppression and even complete tumor elimination in preclinical studies. This demonstrates REQORSA's potential not only as a standalone agent, but also as a powerful adjunct therapy to re-sensitize resistant tumors and improve outcomes for a broad spectrum of lung cancer patients."
The featured Genprex-supported abstracts and posters presented at AACR 2026:
Title: "TROP2 and PTEN are biomarkers of primary resistance to TUSC2 gene therapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)"
Session Category: Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics
Session Title: Mechanisms of Drug Resistance 1
Session Date and Time: April 19, 2026 from 2-5 p.m. PT
Location: Poster Section 16
Poster Board Number: 24
Abstract Presentation Number: 391
In this study, researchers established models primarily resistant to TUSC2 gene therapy (REQORSA or Quar Oze) to find biomarkers indicative of TUSC2 gene therapy resistance in NSCLC cell lines, PDX-derived organoids (PDXOs), and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). A panel of 10 NSCLC cell lines screened for TUSC2 sensitivity showed resistance in
Title: "Quaratusugene ozeplasmid mediated TUSC2 upregulation in EML4-ALK bearing non-small cell lung carcinoma induces apoptosis and is highly effective in preclinical studies"
Session Category: Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics
Session Title: RNA, Gene and Cell Therapies, and Enabling Assay Technologies
Session Date and Time: April 19, 2026 from 2-5 p.m. PT
Location: Poster Section 19
Poster Board Number: 12
Abstract Presentation Number: 469
In this study, researchers evaluated TUSC2 expression in a range of ALK+ cell lines and patient-derived organoids (PDOs), both prior to and following exposure to quaratusugene ozeplasmid (Quar Oze). The findings show that Quar Oze-driven TUSC2 overexpression initiates a robust pro-apoptotic response in ALK-positive (ALK+) models, not only in cells that are sensitive but also with acquired resistance (generated in the lab) to the ALK inhibitor alectinib. This is evidenced by increased pro-apoptotic markers and lower cell viability when Quar Oze is used in combination with alectinib. To further assess the Quar Oze and alectinib combination, researchers tested it in two in vivo models: (1) an alectinib-sensitive model using subcutaneous injection of NCI-H2228 ALK+ cells into nude mice, and (2) an alectinib-resistant model using ALK167 PDX implants in NSG mice. Once tumors reached ~ 100 mm³, mice were randomized into four groups: vehicle control; Quar Oze alone (25 μg/mouse, IV, every three days); alectinib alone (0.5 mg/kg for sensitive or 15 mg/kg for resistant, oral, daily); and Quar Oze plus alectinib at the same doses. In the sensitive model, tumors in the alectinib-treated group shrank by
In the resistant model, the Quar Oze and alectinib combination produced a synergistic effect, achieving the greatest tumor reduction and improved overall survival (p value 0.0001 versus control), further supporting the clinical potential of this therapeutic strategy in ALK+ NSCLC. Altogether, the in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that Quar Oze-mediated TUSC2 overexpression in ALK+ NSCLC effectively curtails tumor growth and proliferation via activation of apoptotic pathways, providing a compelling rationale for progressing toward a clinical trial.
Title: "Restoring TUSC2 function boosts NK cell cytotoxicity and antitumor immunity in vivo and in vitro"
Session Category: Immunology
Session Title: Immune Cell Biology and Tumor-Immune Crosstalk
Session Date and Time: April 19, 2026 from 2-5 p.m. PT
Location: Poster Section 8
Poster Board Number: 7
Abstract Presentation Number: 164
TUSC2, located on chromosome 3p21.3, is frequently deleted in multiple human cancers, including NSCLC, small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC), mesothelioma, breast cancer and head-and-neck cancers. Loss of TUSC2 is associated with reduced survival and increased tumor aggressiveness. Although TUSC2 is known to suppress tumor cell proliferation and induce apoptosis, its regulatory role in the immune system—particularly in innate lymphoid populations—remains insufficiently defined. Building on prior work identifying TUSC2 as a mitochondrial protein involved in calcium regulation and immune modulation, researchers hypothesized that TUSC2 exerts antitumor effects in part by enhancing NK cell cytotoxicity.
Tusc2 knockout (Tusc2 KO) and wild-type (Tusc2 WT) mice were challenged with syngeneic tumor cells (344SQ) and treated with TUSC2-expressing lipoparticles (quaratusugene ozeplasmid, Quar Oze). The therapeutic group received Quar Oze after tumor establishment starting at day 8 from cell line injection, while the prophylaxis group received Quar Oze before tumor establishment, starting 2 days before injection of cell lines. Control groups received empty lipoparticles. After three weeks from cell line injection, tumor volumes were assessed, and mice were euthanized for collection of tumors, spleens, and tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLN). Immune cell phenotypes and cytotoxic markers were analyzed using flow cytometry.
In vitro studies evaluated NK cell cytotoxic function following Quar Oze treatment by measuring CD107a degranulation and CellTrace Violet–based proliferation. In the therapeutic treatment group,
In conclusion, TUSC2 acts as a critical enhancer of innate antitumor immunity by boosting NK cell cytotoxic function. Therapeutic delivery of TUSC2 via Quar Oze suppresses tumor progression and, in many cases, drives complete tumor elimination. These results highlight TUSC2 as a potent immunomodulatory tumor suppressor and support its development as a dual-function therapeutic that directly targets tumor cells while also activating NK cell–mediated immunity.
These AACR 2026 posters have been made available on Genprex's website here.
About Genprex, Inc.
Genprex, Inc. is a clinical-stage gene therapy company focused on developing life-changing therapies for patients with cancer and diabetes. Genprex's technologies are designed to administer disease-fighting genes to provide new therapies for large patient populations with cancer and diabetes who currently have limited treatment options. Genprex works with world-class institutions and collaborators to develop drug candidates to further its pipeline of gene therapies in order to provide novel treatment approaches. Genprex's oncology program utilizes its systemic, non-viral Oncoprex® Delivery System which encapsulates the gene-expressing plasmids using lipid-based nanoparticles in a lipoplex form. The resultant product is administered intravenously, where it is taken up by tumor cells that then express tumor suppressor proteins that were deficient in the tumor. The Company's lead product candidate, Reqorsa® Gene Therapy (quaratusugene ozeplasmid), is being evaluated in two clinical trials as a treatment for NSCLC and SCLC. Each of Genprex's lung cancer clinical programs has received a Fast Track Designation from the FDA for the treatment of that patient population, and Genprex's SCLC program has received an FDA Orphan Drug Designation. Genprex's diabetes gene therapy approach is comprised of a novel infusion process that uses an AAV vector to deliver Pdx1 and MafA genes directly to the pancreas. In models of Type 1 diabetes, GPX-002 transforms alpha cells in the pancreas into functional beta-like cells, which can produce insulin but may be distinct enough from beta cells to evade the body's immune system. In a similar approach for Type 2 diabetes, where autoimmunity is not at play, GPX-002 is believed to rejuvenate and replenish exhausted beta cells.
Interested investors and shareholders are encouraged to sign up for press releases and industry updates by visiting the Company Website, registering for Email Alerts and by following Genprex on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of management, are not guarantees of performance and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. These forward-looking statements should, therefore, be considered in light of various important factors, including those set forth in Genprex's reports that it files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission and which you should review, including those statements under "Item 1A – Risk Factors" in Genprex's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025.
Because forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: Genprex's ability to advance the clinical development, manufacturing and commercialization of its product candidates in accordance with projected timelines and specifications; the timing and success of Genprex's clinical trials, its intended regulatory submissions and any resulting regulatory approvals; the effect of Genprex's product candidates, alone and in combination with other therapies, on cancer and diabetes; Genprex's future growth and financial status, including Genprex's ability to maintain compliance with the continued listing requirements of The Nasdaq Capital Market and to continue as a going concern and to obtain capital to meet its long-term liquidity needs on acceptable terms, or at all; Genprex's commercial and strategic partnerships, including those with its third party vendors, suppliers and manufacturers and their ability to successfully perform and scale up the manufacture of its product candidates; Genprex's intellectual property and licenses; and Genprex's current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the industry and markets in which it operates.
These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as predictions of future events and Genprex cannot assure you that the events or circumstances discussed or reflected in these statements will be achieved or will occur. If such forward-looking statements prove to be inaccurate, the inaccuracy may be material. You should not regard these statements as a representation or warranty by Genprex or any other person that Genprex will achieve its objectives and plans in any specified timeframe, or at all. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Genprex disclaims any obligation to publicly update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date of this press release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.
Genprex, Inc.
(877) 774-GNPX (4679)
GNPX Investor Relations
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media@genprex.com
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