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Medical and health sciences
- Cancer therapy
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Engineering and technology
- Cell, tissue and organ engineering
We have discovered that we can enhance the efficacy and persistence of traditional CAR T cell cancer therapies by a specific cell surface glycosylation alteration that we can achieve by targeting a single gene of the donor’s T cells. This enhances primary tumor clearance and long-term protection against relapse in mouse models of both hematological and solid tumors. This invention is patent-protected and can be implemented in any CAR T product. We now aim at completing the datapackage that is required for technology transfer at optimal valuation. Our specific aims are 1. To expand the scope of our glyco-engineered CAR T cell concept: we will confirm and expand the robustness, safety and efficacy of our glyco-engineered CAR T cells in industry-standard preclinical models. 2. To broaden our IP portfolio: While we targeted the most important biochemical pathway that results in our particular glycosylation alteration, there is a second pathway and several other genes that could in theory result in a similar glycosylation alteration. The impact on CAR T functionality of those other gene modifications needs to be investigated so that we can also IP-cover those technological options, safeguarding against circumvention of our present patent scope. 3. To prepare for clinical translation: we aim to prepare our glyco-engineered CAR T cell therapy for clinical trials, including preclinical safety assessments, demonstration of manufacturability in cancer patient-derived T cells and establishing what is needed to ensure a confident regulatory path. 4. To build a valorization plan: we will liaise with relevant industry stakeholders and potential investors to design a feasible go-to-market strategy through spin-off company creation or a licensing model with existing CAR T biopharma, or a combination of both.