Research & Development Programs
CD200 fusion protein (CD200Fc)
CD200 (formerly known as OX-2) is an important immunoregulatory
molecule. Through engagement of a specific receptor found on
macrophages and T cells, CD200 downregulates macrophage activity
and causes immunosuppression. TTI scientists have generated a
soluble version of CD200 (CD200Fc) that exhibits potent immunosuppressive
properties, and is particularly useful for blocking pro-inflammatory
(Th 1) responses. CD200Fc has shown efficacy in a variety of
pre-clinical studies, including animal models of transplantation,
fetal loss, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
CD200-specific monoclonal antibody
CD200 is highly expressed by certain leukemias and lymphomas,
and CD200-like molecules are encoded by a number of different
viruses. As CD200 is clearly an important immunoregulatory molecule,
it is possible that tumors and viruses are exploiting its immune-suppressing
properties to evade the immune system. TTI is developing a monoclonal
antibody that blocks the function of CD200, and thus enhances
immune responses. Pre-clinical cancer studies have found that
treatment of mice with such an antibody increases the rejection
of tumors.
FcgRIIa antagonists
FcgRIIa (CD32a) is a low affinity receptor
for IgG that delivers an immune-activating signal upon binding
antibody-antigen complexes. It is the most prevalent and abundant
Fc receptor in humans, and is involved in the development of
antibody-mediated inflammation and autoimmunity. TTI, in collaboration
with its industrial partners and the Austin Research Institute
in Australia, is developing both biological and small molecule
inhibitors to FcgRIIa.
TTI-1612
TTI-1612 is a small, orally-available recombinant protein growth factor that has powerful cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. It has shown remarkable efficacy in preclinical animal models of NEC and intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury, and may have additional application in the treatment of other intestinal disorders, such as short bowel syndrome and chemotherapy-induced mucositis.
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