IL4-Blocker
All of the IL-4 blockers developed by Apogenix are human proteins, among which are Fc- fusion proteins and antibodies. Efficacy of these human proteins has been demonstrated in a series of cancer and cancer stem cell-based, in vitro and in vivo assays. Currently, the company is developing cell lines to express potential drug candidates, the best of which will be selected for further development.
| Compound | Indication | Discovery | Pre-clinical | Phase I | Phase II | Phase III |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Various | Solid Tumours | completed | 50% completed | - | - | - |
IL-4 blockers inhibit the stimulation of IL-4 receptors, which are present in the cancer cells and cancer stem cells of solid tumours. Stimulation of IL-4 receptors leads to the production of several proteins that inhibit programmed cell death - apoptosis. Treatment with IL-4 blockers normalizes the production of these proteins, leading to renewed sensitivity of these cancer cells or cancer stem cells to apoptosis-inducing treatments like chemotherapeutics.
Mode of action of IL-4 blockers
Preclinical studies, both in vitro and in vivo, have shown that combinations of IL-4 blockers with chemotherapeutics result in a strong suppression of tumour cell growth. In comparison, treatment with chemotherapeutics alone showed only a limited effect.
In the past, IL-4 blockers have been developed as an asthma treatment. In human trials, no serious side effects have been reported.
Apogenix plans to out-license the IL-4 blocker programme upon completion of preclinical development.
Contact our Business Development Manager for more information.
Dr. Jürgen Gamer - VP Business Development - Apogenix GmbH
Phonework: +49 (0) 6221 58608 0
E-mail: juergen.gamer@apogenix.com
