Oncopeptides publishes article on NK cell engagers in New Biotechnology
September 12, 2023
A new article, describing a set of affibody-based NK cell engagers using B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) as a model antigen for targeting of multiple myeloma, has been published online ahead of the November issue of New Biotechnology, the official journal of the European Federation of Biotechnology (EFB). Among the highlights of the article, dual engagers are found effective in activating resting NK cells and inducing a BCMA-dependent killing of MM cells.
Oncopeptides has developed a proprietary technology platform for Small Polypeptide based Killer Engagers (SPiKE). In September 2022, the Company received a research grant from Sweden’s Innovation Agency, to develop pre-clinical proof of concept for a novel synthetic small polypeptide for the treatment of multiple myeloma, OP-X. The compound is a Natural Killer (NK) cell engaging immunotherapy, with superior tissue penetration and immune cell activation, and has a potential to boost NK cell engagement across multiple oncology target areas.
Read the article through this link.
Questions and Answers
What is this?
Oncopeptides, as most other biotech companies conducting medical research, from time to time publish medical data in established publications, such as New Biotechnology, or at medical congresses. These articles and presentations are primarily aimed at healthcare professionals.
The article referenced above describes compounds that can stimulate NK cells to kill tumor cells harboring a specific protein expressed on the cell surface. These compounds constitute a new class of NK cell engagers built by protein domains called affibodies. These compounds are relatively small and show excellent tissue penetration.
What is the SPiKE platform?
Oncopeptides has developed a proprietary technology platform for Small Polypeptide based Killer Engagers (SPiKE). In September 2022, the Company received a research grant from Sweden’s Innovation Agency, to develop pre-clinical proof of concept for a novel synthetic small polypeptide for the treatment of multiple myeloma, OP-X. The compound is a Natural Killer (NK) cell engaging immunotherapy, with superior tissue penetration and immune cell activation, and has a potential to boost NK cell engagement across multiple oncology target areas.
By completion of the NK ENGAGE project, the efficacy of the lead compound will be validated in a novel pre-clinical model. The data package generated, may warrant us to enter final preclinical studies including IND enabling studies, and subsequently start clinical development.
The project has received a financial grant from the Eurostars 3-program, it is co-financed by the EU’s research and innovation program “Horizon Europe” and is driven by an international research consortium. This includes worldleading expertise from the department of Cancer Immunology at Oslo University Hospital, Norway, Pharmatest Services Ltd in Turku, Finland, and Oncopeptides, together with our collaborator the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm (KTH), where the technology originally stems from.
What are medical publications?
Medical publications refer to written documents that present research findings, case studies, reviews, and other scientific information in the field of medicine. They are often published in scientific journals after undergoing a rigorous peer-review process.
Why are they important for a healthcare company such as Oncopeptides?
Medical publications help to establish credibility, promote transparency, and provide valuable evidence for the efficacy and safety of treatments or interventions. By sharing research findings and clinical experiences, companies can contribute to the broader medical knowledge base, influencing patient care and industry standards.
Do these publications affect product development?
The data from research and clinical trials, when published, can provide insights into the development of new drugs or new indications for existing ones. They can also guide the direction of future research projects.
How do healthcare professionals use these publications?
Healthcare professionals rely on medical publications to stay updated on the latest research, innovative techniques, and best practices. This knowledge helps them make informed decisions about patient care and treatment choices.
Can the general public access these publications?
In the case of New Biotechnology, its’ content is so called open source, meaning the public can access it without cost. While many medical journals require subscriptions, there are many open-access journals and resources where research is freely available.
Why is the peer-review process in medical publications crucial?
Peer review ensures that the research presented in the publication is of high quality, scientifically sound, and free from biases. Experts in the field evaluate the research, which helps maintain the credibility and trustworthiness of the findings.
How do medical publications benefit patients?
By driving advancements in medical science, these publications play a role in the development of newer, safer, and more effective treatments. When healthcare companies share their findings, it speeds up the dissemination of crucial information, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Where can I find more information?
You can read the full article here. For additional information, reach out to David Augustsson, Director of Corporate Affairs, david.augustsson@oncopeptides.com