Science

Recognize & Respond

We are developing a new class of context-dependent therapeutics that are only active when bound to a target molecule.

While cytokines with broad immuno-stimulatory activity have shown an ability to increase the anti-tumor immune response, many are limited by significant toxicity. Cytokines that act solely in a targeted, regulated manner have the potential to amplify the anti-tumor immune response while reducing systemic toxicity.

Our Context-Dependent Therapies

Two Components

Therapeutic Component

The therapeutic component consists of a protein-based drug, such as a cytokine, antibody binding domain, receptor, or enzyme. This therapeutic component is only active when the sensor component is bound to its target.

Example: IFNα

Sensor Component

The sensor component consists of an antibody binding domain directed against a tissue- or cell type-specific protein or metabolic marker. Sensor binding induces the therapeutic to undergo a conformational change into its active form. Sensors can be designed to target any entity that can be bound by an antibody, including peptides, proteins, and metabolites.

Example: PD-L1

Recognize & Respond

Addressing The Problem Of Systemic Toxicity

Combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors with additional immunostimulatory drugs may broaden and deepen patient responses. However, systemic toxicity is likely to limit the application of many such combinations.

Our context-dependent therapeutics are designed to allow for systemic administration with localized function. We believe this approach will result in cancer treatments with improved efficacy and decreased toxicity.

Our work is shaped by biological insight and novel protein engineering approaches – all with an eye towards the clinic and the patients we serve. We have an exciting opportunity to explore new ideas and scientific directions as we continue to grow our platform.

Diane Hollenbaugh, Chief Scientific Officer

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