Overview

8R-70CAR combines CD70 targeting with an IL-8 receptor modification to overcome barriers of solid tumor entry and enhance therapeutic efficacy of CAR T cells. The FDA has granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) to 8R-70CAR T-cell therapy for the treatment of malignant gliomas.

Scientific and Clinical Highlights

• Dual-function CAR design not only targets tumors but also equips T cells with a “molecular GPS” for improved trafficking and persistence.
• Demonstrated robust efficacy in preclinical models of glioblastoma, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers.
• Phase I clinical trials are currently enrolling adult glioblastoma (GBM, NCT05353530), which is now being expanded to additional cancer indications, such as pediatric high-grade glioma (NCT06946680) and cancer brain metastases (NCT07569263).

Technology Origin

The platform originated from research conducted at the University of Florida and is currently under an exclusive licensing option with Immunogenik. Supporting scientific findings have been published in peer-reviewed journals (PMC6728370).  

Overview

aLAIR1 is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks LAIR1, a key immune-inhibitory receptor on tumor-associated myeloid cells. LAIR1 blockade reshapes the tumor microenvironment, reduces immune suppression, and enhances antitumor response.

Scientific and Clinical Highlights

• Promotes macrophage polarization toward a pro-inflammatory phenotype.
• Reduces tumor fibrosis and collagen deposition.
• Enhances anti-tumor efficacy of CAR T-cells.
• Demonstrates superior efficacy as a monotherapy in PD-1 blockade–resistant tumor models.
• The project is currently in IND-enabling development.

Technology Origin

The LAIR1 blockade platform was developed through academic research (PMC12352909) at the University of Florida and is supported by NIH STTR funding. Immunogenik holds an exclusive option agreement for commercialization and licensing rights related to this technology platform.

Overview

Our next-generation multifunctional L2‑8R‑70CAR platform combines CD70 tumor targeting, CXCR2-mediated T-cell trafficking, and secretion of LAIR2 to counter immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment. Its preclinical findings are described in our recent publication (PMC12352909).

Scientific and Clinical Highlights

• FDA pre-IND meeting has been completed.
• PCT patent application has been filed (PCT/US2026/031937).
• The program is advancing through IND-enabling development with support from an NIH STTR award, including Technical and Business Assistance (TABA) resources.