Our Science and Technologies

Immunogenik, a University of Florida spin-off, is advancing a next-generation immunotherapy platform built on cutting-edge science and translational research. Our multi-platform strategy is designed to overcome the fundamental mechanisms of immune resistance that limit current therapies. By reprogramming the tumor microenvironment, we address immunosuppression, enhance CAR T-cell trafficking and persistence, and block myeloid checkpoint–mediated inhibition, unlocking durable responses in both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. Immunogenik holds exclusive option agreements to the underlying technologies, ensuring a strong intellectual property position as we advance toward clinical and commercial translation.

The video (
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.042) shows CD70 CAR T cells (green) attacking and killing glioblastoma tumor cells (red).

Platform 1: 8R-70CAR T-Cell Therapy

Overview

8R-70CAR combines CD70 targeting with an IL-8 receptor modification to overcome barriers of solid tumor entry and enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Scientific Highlights

  • Dual-function CAR design enhances T-cell 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, NTC05353530) and pediatric high-grade gliomas (HGG, NCT06946680) patients

Technology Origin

Developed in Dr. Jianping Huang's academic lab at the University of Florida, this technology is under an exclusive option agreement with Immunogenik for licensing.

Platform 2: LAIR1 Antibody Blockade

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 T-cell-based therapies.

Scientific Highlights

  • Promotes macrophage polarization toward a pro-inflammatory phenotype
  • Reduces tumor fibrosis and collagen deposition
  • Enhances efficacy of CAR T-cells and in PD-1 blockade-resistant tumor models

Technology Origin

aLAIR1 was developed in Dr. Huang's academic research program. Immunogenik holds an exclusive option agreement with the University of Florida for the licensing rights to this platform. This next-generation technology is supported by an NIH STTR award.

Platform 3: 3-in-1 CAR T-Cell Therapy

A multifunctional CAR T-cell platform engineered to overcome tumor immune resistance by integrating antigen recognition, enhanced T-cell trafficking, and intrinsic immune checkpoint blockade. This next-generation technology is supported by an NIH STTR award.

Emerging Platforms

Immunogenik is also exploring T-cell receptor (TCR)-based therapies for intracellular tumor antigens in solid and hematologic cancers. This work is in the early discovery phase and is being developed in collaboration with academic research at the University of Florida. Future licensing opportunities will be evaluated as the platform matures.

Anti-lair1 antibodies for the treatment of cancer

Jianping Huang

US Patent Application

January 2025

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Chimeric antigen receptor t-cells expressing interleukin-8 receptor

Jianping Huang ; Linchun Jin

US Patent Office

October 2023

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Targeting immune checkpoint LAIR1 with antibody blockade or 3-in-1 CAR T cells enhances antitumor response

Haipeng Tao, et al

The Journal of Investigation

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07/01/2025

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CXCR1- or CXCR2- modified CAR T cells co-opt IL-8 for maximal antitumor efficacy in solid tumors

Linchun Jin, et al.

Nature Communications

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09/15/2019

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Targeting LAIR1-mediated immunosuppression adds a new weapon to our immunotherapy arsenal

Ezri P. Perrin, et al

The Journal of Investigation

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08/15/2025

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CD70, a novel target of CAR T-cell therapy for gliomas

Linchun Jin, et al.

Neuro-Oncology

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06/15/2017

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Bioconjugated liquid-like solid enhances characterization of solid tumor - chimeric antigen receptor T cell interactions

Duy T. Nguyen, et al

Acta Biomaterialia

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12/01/2023

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