We develop a lentivirus ex-vivo gene transfer strategy into autologous hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) to target interferon-α expression to tumor-infiltrating monocytes/macrophages (Tie2 Expressing Monocytes - TEMs). As a result, a recruitment of tumor-specific cytotoxic Tcells is added to the interferon-α effect.
In contrast to antigen-restricted Chimeric Antigen Receptor T cells (CAR-T), Temferon™ generates immune responses to any TEMs positive tumors.
Using a combination of transcriptional and microRNA-mediated control, TEMs become capable to selectively express interferon-αlimited to the tumor micro environment. Based on these mechanisms, TEMs are armed with a specific drug and can systematically break the tumor immune-tolerance reprogramming the micro environment and generate an immune response.
Genenta has been authorized to enter in a Ph I/II clinical trials in newly diagnosed Glioblastoma tumor patients. The demonstration of Temferon™ safety and of the molecular and biological readouts at the base of the predicted clinical efficacy in these two indications should support the potential development of Temferon™ against a broad range of solid tumors both as first line and as combination therapy.