Overview

Technology Overview

We have developed highly specific antibodies to a range of antigens which have been demonstrated to be implicated in tumorigenesis. Dendritic cell uptake of the antigen via Fc results in unique antigen presentation and cross presentation and generates a robust immune response resulting in antigen-specific cytotoxic and helper T-cell expansion. We have studied our antibodies in combination with a broad range of chemotherapeutic and other immunomodulatory agents in both preclinical and clinical studies.

Our Portfolio of Novel Immuno-Stimulatory Antibodies

The field of immuno-oncology (or cancer immunotherapy) has made significant progress in the past decade. Cancer immunotherapies generally work by interfering with the inhibitory signals produced by tumors against specific constituents of the immune system. Because such inhibitory signals are mediated by “immune checkpoint” cell-surface molecules, the first generation of cancer immunotherapies are generally known as checkpoint inhibitors. The notable clinical efficacy of some checkpoint inhibitors appears to be associated with the activity of effector lymphocytes, mainly tumor-infiltrating T-effector cells. However, there continues to be a significant unmet need. While checkpoint inhibitors have produced significant benefit for some patients, a large segment of patients fail to benefit from these therapies.

As we learn more about the various and redundant tumor-triggered immunosuppressive pathways, there is an evolving view that in order for these targeted drugs to be broadly effective, we will need to develop combinations that at once, interfere with a number of these mechanisms while triggering a more robust immune stimulatory response.