At ILC Therapeutics (ILCT), we are pioneering a novel drug class called hybrid interferons, Dawn Firmin, Chief Operating Officer, tells Dr Kevin Robinson.
This is being driven by our platform technology, which has so far delivered two engineered cytokine candidates that are progressing towards the clinic. This article explores the journey so far, some of the specific challenges that have arisen and how we have faced them.
An introduction to hybrid interferons
Natural interferons (IFNs) are the body’s first defence against pathogens. They work in multiple ways, such as by activating immune cells, upregulating antigen presentation, acting as a signalling bridge between the innate and adaptive immune system, and modulating multiple inflammatory pathways.
To date, there have been 17 distinct natural IFN subtypes identified, each with different biological properties generating different modes of action.
Some specific IFN subtypes (primarily IFNa2 and IFNb) have been used effectively in the clinic for almost 40 years; however, they can cause significant side-effects, including autoimmune disorders and cytokine release syndrome, which can be fatal.
At ILCT, we have developed a first-in-class technology platform whereby we can rationally select attributes from different natural interferons, producing a novel drug class: hybrid interferons.
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