Objective
"The project is focused on the development of a groundbreaking Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) specifically designed for macrophage depletion in the Tumor Microenvironment (TME). With a primary focus on breast cancer and solid tumors, this initiative represents a paradigm shift in cancer therapeutics.
The presence of Tumor-Associated Macrophages (TAMs) in the TME has been identified as a significant factor in tumor progression and immune evasion. Our proposed ADC will directly target these macrophages, effectively depleting them and thereby creating a more favorable environment for tumor eradication.
The primary objectives of this project are as follows:
1. To synthesise and optimise ADCs for specific targeting and depletion of TAMs in the TME.
2. To demonstrate the efficacy of the ADC in preclinical models, establishing its potential for human application.
3. To perform a thorough ""freedom to operate"" analysis, ensuring that the ADC technology does not infringe upon existing intellectual property rights.
4. To establish a detailed plan for the commercial development of this ADC, outlining steps for regulatory approval, manufacturing scalability, and market entry.
By achieving these objectives, we aim to propel this project from the conceptual stage to a viable, commercialisable medical solution. The successful implementation of this ADC has the potential to revolutionise cancer treatment, offering a targeted approach that could significantly improve patient outcomes. The support of ERC Proof of Concept Grant will be pivotal in transitioning this transformative technology from the laboratory to the marketplace, ultimately changing the landscape of cancer therapeutics.
The strategic positioning of Zelula Biopharma (Host Institution) as a spin-off of CIC bioGUNE adds substantial value to this project, leveraging a unique blend of resources, academic research excellence and entrepreneurial agility to accelerate the transition from lab to market."
Fields of science
Keywords
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC) Main Programme
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept GrantsHost institution
20014 SAN SEBASTIAN
Spain
The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.