Periodic Reporting for period 1 - FIH-IO (Development of a first-in-class inhibitor of FIH for cancer immunotherapy)
Reporting period: 2022-06-01 to 2023-11-30
The project addresses a significant gap in current cancer treatment options by focusing on a novel approach to immunotherapy. Despite advances in immuno-oncology, current treatments like checkpoint receptor blockade are limited to a small subset of cancers and patient groups. Our laboratory is pioneering a treatment targeting the enzyme "Factor Inhibiting HIF" (FIH) to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy, particularly for lung adenocarcinoma—a segment with dire medical need due to poor survival rates and limited therapeutic options. The project's goal is to improve treatment efficacy and to provide more affordable options. By developing this novel therapy and exploring technology transfer options, the project aims to significantly impact the quality of life for patients and reduce the economic burden on health systems.
The team has successfully identified and developed multiple selective inhibitors of FIH, ready for optimization and progress into a new class of immunotherapies. Through diverse scientific methodologies, including structural biology and medicinal chemistry, we have progressed from exploring the biology of FIH to hit identification. We have also validated our approach using transgenic mouse models and primary human T cells. The achievements so far represent promising steps toward a new, more effective treatment for cancer, with lung adenocarcinoma being the initial focus
Our project is differentiated from current immuno-oncology treatments. The results have demonstrated that targeting FIH can inhibit lung cancer cell proliferation and potentiate the hypoxia response in T cells, offering a unique mechanism of action distinct from existing therapies. The potential impact is substantial, with the possibility of improving outcomes for a broad range of cancers. To ensure further success, continued research, investment in commercialization, and a supportive regulatory environment will be key. By project completion, we anticipate a comprehensive overview of the results that will support the transformative potential of this new therapy.