New Oral Treatment Will Target Rare Salivary Cancer
Researchers will present findings on a new drug candidate for patients living with adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Cancer
Clinical data for RGT-61159, an oral splicing modulator for adenoid cystic carcinoma, will be presented at the ESMO Congress 2026. This rare cancer, which is the second most common form arising in the salivary gland, affects roughly 200,000 people globally.
Why it matters
Adenoid cystic carcinoma often involves overactivation of the MYB oncogene, a factor present in over 90% of cases. Currently, effective treatment options for this rare condition remain a significant challenge for the 11,000 patients living with the disease in the United States.
The upcoming presentation at the ESMO Congress 2026 will feature initial data from a Phase 1a/b trial testing RGT-61159 in patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma. These findings represent preliminary research on the safety and potential activity of this experimental treatment.
The players
Rgenta Therapeutics
A clinical-stage biotechnology company developing small molecule medicines that target RNA biology.
The details
RGT-61159 functions as an oral MYB splicing modulator. By targeting the splicing process of the MYB transcription factor, the compound works to inhibit the production of oncogenic MYB protein. This mechanism aims to disrupt the genetic driver responsible for the rapid growth of tumor cells in adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Timeline
October 19, 2026: The full study abstract will be available on the ESMO Congress website.
October 23, 2026: The full presentation poster will be released online.
October 23-27, 2026: The ESMO Congress 2026 takes place in Madrid.
October 26, 2026: The poster presentation occurs from 12:00-12:45 p.m. CET.
Health Landscape
The development of RGT-61159 reflects a growing movement in oncology to treat cancers through precise modulation of RNA splicing. This approach marks a departure from traditional therapies by attempting to silence specific genetic drivers like the MYB oncogene.
This study focuses on a specific genetic signature relevant to adenoid cystic carcinoma patients, making it a topic for potential discussion with an oncologist. Patients tracking new clinical research should consult their physician about whether emerging trials like this one are appropriate for their specific case.
The takeaway
Advancements in splicing modulation offer a promising, targeted strategy for treating complex cancers like those involving the MYB oncogene. Patients and families managing this diagnosis should keep an eye on official oncology registry reports for updates on clinical trial accessibility.
Further reading
For more on advancements in oncology, visit our Cancer section.
