Boosting immuno-oncology strategies with innovative immuno-stimulants derived from bacteria, to be administrated in combination with therapeutic monoclonal antibodies

ended

Passive immunotherapies are widely used in anti-cancer therapies. However, on average the patient response rates are still weak (20%), and the cure rate without relapse are even lesser (10%). In addition, significant differences exist according to patients, and tumor types. HEPHAISTOS-Pharma develops active and non-specific immunotherapies able to potentiate commercialized antibodies, turning cold tumors hot, thus becoming accessible to immunology. We already obtained an impressive proof of concept on two animal models, first by association with Rituximab for lymphoma, then in monotherapy for osteosarcoma. Our strategy aims at developing our products for open use, as add-on for existing immunotherapies, in order to drastically increase response rates and complete remission. With this aim, we have to test our immunotherapy combined to other monoclonal antibodies commercialized in the relevant cancer models, in parallel to our developments in lymphoma. As soon as the target indication will be defined, we will start the clinical research phase I, in order to demonstrate safety, and define the efficient dose for our immunotherapy. A clinical Phase IIa, combined with Rituximab will be performed, to obtain efficacy data. Our immunotherapy will work in synergy with numerous commercialized therapeutic antibodies, and we will look for strategic deals with the main market leaders.