Objective
This project aims to advance a first-in-class/best-in-disease novel trispecific T cell engager, TRIDENT-19, with improved efficacy as compared to standard CD3-based bispecifics as it overcomes tumor-associated T cell dysfunction. Multispecific antibodies (MA) enable simultaneous engagement of immune effector cells and tumor cells. Crosstalk within the tumor microenvironment frequently impairs T cell function, leading to partial and short-lived responses to CD3-engaging multispecific antibodies in cancers such as in CLL. Based on our ERC-Consolidator funded studies (864815/BOOTCAMP), we made the exciting discovery of an alternative T-cell activating entry point that bypasses tumor-mediated T-cell dysfunction. To exploit this finding, we developed a (ERC PoC funded) trispecific T-cell engager platform to overcome limitations of CD3 engagers. This led to a lead CD19 engaging candidate, TRIDENT-19, that induces potent T cell responses against malignant B cells, outperforming a CD3-based control compound, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic candidate.
IMPACT will address key steps required to move TRIDENT-19 towards clinical readiness:
1) The optimization of the IgG1-based T cell engaging scaffold, by designing backbone variables and identifying the most efficient configuration of the TRIDENT scaffold using cell lines and primary patient-derived tumor- and T cells.
2) Investigation of different binder combinations, comparing clinically validated CD19 binders and assessing whether optimized targeting improves cytotoxic activity.
3) Evaluation of TRIDENT’s applicability to other B-cell malignancies by targeting additional validated antigens. In parallel, the project will develop a comprehensive business plan and engage with CMC, clinical & regulatory experts to define a product development strategy and a clear roadmap that de‑risks the transition into first‑in‑human studies of the lead candidate.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2026-POC
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
1081 HV Amsterdam
Netherlands
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.