TigaTx Secures $35.5M to Advance Groundbreaking IgA-Based Cancer Therapy
In a meaningful leap forward for cancer treatment, TigaTx Inc., a biotechnology spin-off from UMC Utrecht, has secured up to $35.5 million in funding to advance its innovative engineered IgA antibody therapy. The funding includes $33.5 million from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) and an additional $2 million from the National cancer Institute (NCI).This financial boost will enable TigaTx to bring its pioneering therapy to clinical trials, offering new hope for patients resistant to traditional treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
A New Frontier in Cancer Therapy
TigaTx’s approach centers on immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies, which uniquely activate neutrophils, a type of immune cell typically associated with fighting infections. While neutrophils are abundant in many tumors, they are often overlooked in cancer therapies due to their perceived negative impact on prognosis. However, research led by Professor Jeanette leusen at UMC Utrecht revealed that neutrophils, when properly activated, can effectively target and destroy cancer cells.
“The interest of business and investors for our technology and the new financing are clear examples of how basic research can lead to groundbreaking therapies that can treat both cancer and infectious diseases more effectively,” said Professor Leusen, whose work laid the foundation for TigaTx’s innovative approach.
The Science Behind the Breakthrough
the IgA technology developed by TigaTx is the result of years of research at UMC Utrecht. Professor Leusen’s team engineered IgA antibodies to enhance their ability to activate neutrophils,creating a powerful new tool in the fight against cancer. This therapy stands out because it leverages neutrophils,which naturally possess the ability to kill cancer cells but often fail to do so without intervention.
With the newly secured funding, TigaTx plans to initiate clinical studies to evaluate the safety and efficacy of its lead program, TIGA-001, an IgA anti-EGFR neutrophil engager.This marks a critical step toward bringing this promising therapy to patients in need.
Beyond Cancer: A Dual Focus
While TigaTx’s primary focus is on cancer, the company also aims to adapt its IgA technology for the treatment of infectious diseases. This dual approach is notably relevant in the face of rising antibiotic resistance and emerging viral threats. By harnessing the power of neutrophils, TigaTx’s technology could revolutionize treatment options for a wide range of conditions.
Collaboration Driving Innovation
The growth of TigaTx’s therapy highlights the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and industry. UMC Utrecht, Utrecht Holdings (the university’s knowledge transfer office), and TigaTx Inc. have established agreements on intellectual property rights, ensuring that future revenues will be reinvested in further research. This partnership not only accelerates the translation of scientific discoveries into real-world applications but also fosters ongoing innovation in the field of antibody therapy.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Funding | $33.5M from ARPA-H, $2M from NCI |
| Technology | Engineered IgA antibodies activating neutrophils |
| Lead Program | TIGA-001 (IgA anti-EGFR neutrophil engager) |
| Applications | Cancer treatment, potential for infectious diseases |
| Collaborators | UMC Utrecht, Utrecht Holdings, TigaTx Inc. |
A Promising Future
TigaTx’s innovative approach to cancer therapy represents a paradigm shift in the field of immunotherapy. By unlocking the tumor-killing potential of neutrophils, the company is paving the way for more effective treatments for patients who have tired traditional options. As clinical trials progress, the world will be watching closely to see how this groundbreaking technology transforms the landscape of cancer care.
For more data on TigaTx’s pioneering work, visit their official website here.
