In a recent episode of TheStreet’s Stocks & Markets Podcast, Michael Breen, CEO of GT Biopharma (GTBP), emphasized the need for more humane cancer treatments. During the discussion with host Chris Versace, Breen outlined the company’s approach to developing a novel treatment aimed at improving patient experiences compared to traditional methods.
The biopharmaceutical sector is on the brink of considerable growth, with projections suggesting the cancer drug market could surge from approximately **$225 million in 2024** to as much as **$360 billion by 2030-2034**. This expansion is largely attributed to increasing cancer rates, advancements in therapies, and the aging population, which Versace highlighted as a critical factor in the evolving healthcare landscape.
“We want to find a more humane cure for cancer,” Breen stated, expressing concern over existing treatment options that have not significantly changed since the post-World War II era. He described the current treatments available to patients, which include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, and pointed out their severe drawbacks.
According to Breen, surgery involves cutting out cancerous tissue but often fails to address the disease’s spread throughout the body. Chemotherapy, he noted, is akin to poisoning the body, leaving patients with weakened immune systems. “Chemotherapy kills your natural killer cells,” he said, warning that patients must avoid contact with others who might be ill due to compromised immunity. Radiotherapy, another conventional option, he described as “burning your flesh.”
In contrast, GT Biopharma’s treatment is based on a protein that can be administered either through intravenous infusion or via subcutaneous injection, which Breen argued makes it a much more humane alternative. He revealed that the company plans to submit an investigational new drug application to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) either by the end of this year or in early January, with clinical trials expected to commence in the first half of **2026**.
Breen’s focus is on addressing the most prevalent solid tumors, including those affecting the bladder, pancreas, ovaries, lungs, head, neck, as well as breast and prostate cancers. He noted that breast cancer affects one in eight women, while one in eight men is diagnosed with prostate cancer, highlighting the widespread impact of these diseases.
“We are targeting the biggest, most prolific cancers with a humane drug,” he explained, emphasizing that the treatment avoids invasive surgery, toxic chemotherapy, and harmful radiation. He believes this approach aligns with the urgent demands of modern science and healthcare, which have sought better solutions for nearly eight decades.
When Versace inquired about GT Biopharma’s competitive edge, Breen pointed to the drug’s low toxicity levels and cost-effectiveness as significant advantages. “Our drug does not have any problems with toxicity,” he stated, asserting that its protein-based formulation is simpler to manufacture and more likely to be accepted by health insurance providers.
Breen also addressed the global nature of cancer, indicating that GT Biopharma is exploring partnerships with clinical trial centers worldwide, recognizing that the disease transcends borders. “Cancer is a worldwide disease that affects everyone,” he noted, underscoring the need for a unified approach to combating this health crisis.
As he discussed the company’s future, Breen highlighted the importance of protecting intellectual property and ensuring comprehensive patent applications are filed globally. He expressed confidence in GT Biopharma’s pipeline, noting they possess promising technology that could enhance their offerings in the competitive biotech landscape.
In summary, Michael Breen’s insights during the Stocks & Markets Podcast illustrate a transformative vision for cancer treatment. By prioritizing humane approaches and leveraging innovative technology, GT Biopharma aims to redefine patient care and improve outcomes in one of the most challenging areas of healthcare.
