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Genezen and InterAct Therapeutics Unite for Groundbreaking Gene Therapy

In a significant move for cancer therapy, Genezen, a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in gene therapies, has announced a collaboration with InterAct Therapeutics. This strategic partnership aims to advance the clinical development of a novel gene therapy targeting liver-dominant metastatic breast cancer (BCLM).

Genezen, renowned for its expertise in viral vector manufacturing, will provide vital support to InterAct Therapeutics' lead program, IAT-S2, which employs AAV8 technology. This innovative approach is designed to precisely engage hepatic cells, creating a therapeutic environment conducive to fighting metastasis in the liver. Given that metastatic disease is a leading cause of mortality in patients with advanced solid tumors, the development of effective treatments is paramount. Sadly, current therapies often fall short, especially regarding their interaction with the unique environment of metastatic sites.

The journey of this groundbreaking therapy began in the laboratory of Dr. Isaac Chan, MD, PhD at UT Southwestern Medical Center. His research team focused on the complex interplay between metastatic breast cancer cells and healthy liver cells. This exploration birthed InterAct Therapeutics, with the mission to reshape therapeutic strategies not just by attacking cancer cells, but by altering the surrounding biology to present an inhospitable environment for cancer spread.

The significance of liver metastases in patients with breast cancer is underscored by mortality statistics; many patients have a grim median survival of just two to three years post-diagnosis. InterAct's IAT-S2 seeks to change this narrative with a one-time, disease-modifying gene therapy aimed at the liver-tumor microenvironment. Crucially, no therapies have been specifically approved to target this aspect of metastatic breast cancer.

Choosing AAV8 as the delivery mechanism for IAT-S2 was not a random selection. Its efficiency in targeting hepatocytes makes it particularly well-suited for liver-focused therapies. Preclinical trials demonstrated remarkable success, with a near-complete eradication of liver metastases in several mouse models, showcasing the therapeutic potential of IAT-S2.

Following encouraging feedback from the FDA, InterAct Therapeutics is poised to commence Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling studies. Genezen's cutting-edge facility in Indianapolis will play a pivotal role, offering comprehensive AAV process development, scaling capabilities, and good manufacturing practice (GMP) services necessary for toxicology studies and clinical material production for Phase 1 trials.

Dr. Chan, a co-founder of InterAct Therapeutics, expressed his commitment as both a physician and scientist to combat the challenges posed by metastatic breast cancer, particularly when it spreads to the liver. He emphasized the urgency and significance of translating their laboratory discoveries into real-world therapies. Given that this announcement coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is a not just a scientific achievement but also a heartfelt appeal to progress beyond awareness into tangible treatment advances that patients desperately need.

On the other side of the partnership, Genezen's CEO, Steve Favaloro, articulated the organization's mission to transform pioneering science into effective therapies. He pointed out that this collaboration exemplifies Genezen's dedication to scientific excellence and the urgency of addressing patient needs, affirming the impact of innovative partnerships in the oncology field.

In conclusion, Genezen's partnership with InterAct Therapeutics signals a promising advancement in the fight against metastatic breast cancer. By leveraging their combined expertise and resources, they aim not only to develop a viable therapy for liver-dominant tumors but to potentially extend life-saving options for countless patients grappling with the challenges of metastatic disease. As both companies progress through clinical development, all eyes will be on the first steps towards human trials, representing hope for patients and a significant stride in cancer therapy.

About Genezen

Genezen has over 12 years of experience as a premier gene therapy CDMO, offering state-of-the-art viral vector manufacturing facilities. Their commitment spans from therapeutic conception to large-scale production, aiming to deliver cutting-edge gene and cell therapies to the global market.

About InterAct Therapeutics

Focusing on the biology of metastatic disease, InterAct Therapeutics is committed to advancing first-in-class therapies that reshape organ-specific microenvironments. Their work aims to redefine how we approach cancer treatment, starting from a foundational understanding of disease progression.