#USA #Houston #ImmunoGenesis #IMGS-001 #CPRIT

ImmunoGenesis Secures Funding to Enhance Cancer Treatment Efforts

ImmunoGenesis, a pioneering biotech firm committed to advancing immunotherapy solutions, has announced a substantial funding boost in the form of a $10.8 million grant from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). This grant aims to fast-track the clinical development of their lead product, IMGS-001, specifically targeting patients with tough-to-treat immune-excluded tumors.

Overview of IMGS-001

IMGS-001 is a next-generation cytotoxic immune checkpoint inhibitor designed to target the PD-L1 and PD-L2 proteins, mechanisms that many tumor types use to evade the immune response. Existing therapies often overlook tumors that have developed immune exclusion, limiting their effectiveness for a significant number of patients. By addressing this gap, IMGS-001 has the potential to unlock new pathways for treatment where traditional immunotherapies have failed.

Currently, IMGS-001 is in a phase 1a/b clinical trial which focuses on both dose-escalation and dose-expansion strategies, allowing researchers to determine optimal dosing while assessing safety and initial efficacy across diverse solid tumor types. This innovative approach is expected to bring hope to patients with high unmet medical needs impacted by immune-excluded cancers, representing more than half of all cancer patients.

Funding Impact

The latest funding is the second grant awarded to ImmunoGenesis by CPRIT. The first, amounting to $15.5 million in 2020, facilitated the establishment of the company's Texas headquarters, supported essential preclinical studies, and helped secure the Investigational New Drug (IND) clearance necessary to embark on the phase 1a trial of IMGS-001. This new grant enhances their capacity to build upon early positive indications of clinical activity and further develop the program's capabilities.

“CPRIT has been essential to our growth trajectory. Their previous support laid the groundwork we needed to launch our initial trial and scale our operations. This new grant will solidify our efforts to address the pressing healthcare gaps for patients suffering from immune-excluded tumors,” stated James Barlow, CEO of ImmunoGenesis.

Mechanism of Action

The therapeutic design of IMGS-001 revolves around its multifunctional mechanism, engineered to trigger cell death while simultaneously blocking PD-1 signals. Such dual action is crucial for the reactivation of CD8 T-cells, which are pivotal in fighting tumors. These immune 'soldiers', typically locked out of tumors by complex biological defenses, may be reinvigorated through the innovative functions of IMGS-001, potentially leading to significant treatment breakthroughs.

Commitment to Innovation

Dr. Michael A. Curran, a notable figure at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, initially embarked on research that led to the development of IMGS-001. His expertise and discoveries have greatly influenced the trajectory of this treatment, positioning ImmunoGenesis as a key player in the evolving landscape of cancer therapy.

Kristen Doyle, CEO of CPRIT, commented on the funding decision, highlighting the promising early results associated with IMGS-001 from the first round of funding: “Given the initial success and ongoing clinical needs, we are excited to offer continued support for a groundbreaking therapy within the immuno-oncology sphere.”

Future Directions

The IMGS-001 clinical program will focus not only on proving the safety of this new agent but also on assessing its potential as a pivotal treatment modality for a diverse array of tumors that currently limit patient options. ImmunoGenesis aims to continue expanding its leadership team and corporate structure, further embedding itself within the dynamic biotech community in Houston and across Texas.

By harnessing innovative strategies to combat immune resistance, the future looks brighter for patients struggling against daunting cancer diagnoses. As research progresses, ImmunoGenesis reaffirms its commitment to transforming the landscape of cancer treatment by delivering solutions that confront longstanding medical challenges.

For those interested in following their advancements closely, additional information can be accessed on the company's website at immunogenesis.com.