Lumox offers a rapid phototherapy platform that combines llama‑derived nanobodies targeting tumor‑specific antigens with light‑activatable prodrugs. After systemic administration, a brief visible‑light exposure at the tumor site activates the drug, delivering localized cytotoxicity in a single treatment while sparing healthy tissue. The technology is aimed at oncology clinicians for head‑and‑neck and other solid tumors.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Current cancer treatments often rely on systemic chemotherapy or extensive surgery, which can cause significant toxicity and disfigurement, especially for patients with solid tumors such as head and neck cancers. The lack of therapies that can selectively eradicate tumor cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue limits treatment options and quality of life.
Solution
Lumox has engineered Rapid PhotoTherapy, a dual‑selectivity platform that combines llama‑derived nanobody targeting with light‑activatable prodrugs. Nanobodies bind specifically to antigens on cancer cells, delivering the inactive drug directly to the tumor. A brief, non‑thermal light exposure at the tumor site then activates the prodrug, inducing localized cytotoxicity. This approach delivers potent antitumor activity in a single treatment session while minimizing off‑target effects. Preclinical studies and veterinary trials have demonstrated robust efficacy and a clear safety profile, positioning the technology for first‑in‑human trials in head and neck cancer and potential expansion to other solid tumors.
Target Audience
The primary customers are oncology clinicians and hospital oncology departments treating solid tumors, particularly head and neck cancer specialists, as well as pharmaceutical partners seeking to license a precision light‑activated therapy platform.
Features
- Llama‑derived nanobodies engineered for high affinity to tumor‑specific surface markers, enabling precise drug delivery.
- Light‑activatable prodrug chemistry that remains inert systemically and is rapidly converted to an active cytotoxin upon exposure to harmless visible light.
- Dual‑selectivity mechanism (molecular targeting + spatial activation) that confines therapeutic effect to the illuminated tumor volume.
- Single‑day treatment protocol: drug administration followed by a brief light exposure, eliminating the need for prolonged infusion or multiple dosing cycles.
- Demonstrated efficacy and safety in extensive preclinical models and veterinary oncology studies, with no observable systemic toxicity.
- Scalable manufacturing process designed for GMP‑compatible production of both nanobody conjugates and photo‑activatable compounds.
- Platform adaptability for additional solid‑tumor indications by swapping nanobody specificity or adjusting light‑delivery parameters.