The startup develops monoclonal antibodies that target the signaling lymphocytic activation molecule family of receptors, which modulate myeloid-derived suppressor cells. This approach aims to inhibit the growth and spread of various cancers and autoimmune diseases, providing healthcare professionals with effective therapeutic options.
Funding
$8M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) can inhibit the body's immune response, promoting tumor growth and hindering the effectiveness of immunotherapies in cancer treatment. Current therapeutic options often fail to adequately address the immunosuppressive activity of MDSCs in the tumor microenvironment. Similarly, in autoimmune diseases, MDSCs contribute to immune dysregulation and chronic inflammation.
Solution
This startup is developing a novel class of monoclonal antibodies specifically designed to target the signaling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAM) family of receptors expressed on MDSCs. By selectively modulating these receptors, the antibodies aim to re-educate MDSCs, converting them from immunosuppressive to immunostimulatory cells. This approach seeks to enhance the body's natural ability to fight cancer by reversing MDSC-mediated immune suppression within the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, the modulation of SLAM receptors on MDSCs may restore immune balance and reduce inflammation in autoimmune disorders.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes oncologists and rheumatologists seeking novel therapeutic strategies for patients with cancers and autoimmune diseases that are resistant or refractory to existing treatments.
Features
- Proprietary library of monoclonal antibodies targeting distinct SLAM family receptors on MDSCs
- Antibodies engineered for high affinity and specificity to minimize off-target effects
- In vitro assays demonstrating modulation of MDSC function, including reduced immunosuppressive activity and increased antigen presentation
- In vivo preclinical studies showing enhanced anti-tumor efficacy in combination with checkpoint inhibitors
- Development of companion diagnostics to identify patients most likely to respond to SLAM-modulating antibodies
- Formulation for intravenous administration with optimized pharmacokinetic properties