Novel TGFβ-directed therapy approach that exclusively targets tumour cells
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | MetaCurUm Biotech AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 000 000 |
| Project duration | November 2024 - June 2025 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Acceleration of deep tech companies |
| Call | Acceleration of deep tech companies 2024 |
Purpose and goal
MetaCurUm Biotech AB (MCU) is a biotechnology company with documented experience in developing new cancer therapies. MCU is developing the drug candidate Meta-CD - an innovative cancer-specific therapy that prevents metastasis and tumor growth of prostate cancer. We are also developing a method to stratify patients using a companion diagnostics (CDX). Meta-CD, is directed against an oncogenic TGFβ Type I receptor, without affecting healthy cells and normal physiological TGFβ function.
Expected effects and result
We aim to validate our drug target in clinical materials mainly in prostate cancer and to develop Meta-CD towards clinical trials. It involves extensive studies including bioinformatic analyses, in vitro studies with prostate cancer cell lines and patient-derived xenograft models (PDX) as well as development of a monoclonal antibody that is crucial for patient stratification (CDX). Finally, we will test the effect of Meta-CD in upcoming in vivo studies in the most suitable PDX models.
Planned approach and implementation
Over the next 24 months, we will further characterize and validate Meta-CD to increase a successful in vivo study in clinically relevant patient-derived xenograft mCRPC models. Validation of Meta-CD to be used for efficacy studies will be done to ensure the quality of Meta-CD, before entering crucial experiments in mCRPC patient-derived organoid model systems. Develop a monoclonal antibody against our drug target (CDx). An efficacy study of Meta-CD in an orthotopic mCRPC model will be finalized