Arovella Therapeutics Ltd (ASX: ALA) is forging ahead with discussions and collaboration with the University of North Carolina (UNC) Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, leveraging their invariant Natural Killer T cell (iNKT) platform and UNC’s cytokine technology. The combination of these technologies has shown promising results, demonstrating enhanced iNKT cell persistence and anti-tumor activity in a mouse model. Arovella believes this innovative approach could set it apart from other cell therapy biotechs.
UNC Cytokine Technology for Enhanced iNKT Cell Therapy
Under the current agreement, Arovella has optioned UNC’s cytokine technology, which involves incorporating the production of a specialized cytokine in iNKT cells, along with additional features to enhance safety. The recent data revealed that this combination led to prolonged persistence of iNKT cells, resulting in higher iNKT cell numbers. These enhanced iNKT cells demonstrated significantly greater activity against tumors in mice.
Compelling Data Supporting Arovella’s Platform
Dr. Michael Baker, CEO and Managing Director of Arovella Therapeutics, expressed his confidence in the compelling data, stating that UNC’s cytokine technology has the potential to further enhance Arovella’s already highly potent iNKT cell platform. The company believes that incorporating the cytokine technology could make their cancer-targeting approach even more effective for various types of cancer, including solid tumors. Arovella’s collaboration with UNC Lineberger and the positive experimental results represent a significant step forward in advancing their iNKT platform.
Exclusive Option and Licensing Agreement
Arovella Therapeutics has held an exclusive option to license UNC’s cytokine technology since signing the agreement in December 2022. The successful experiment conducted by Arovella triggers a nominal payment of $15,000 to UNC. This milestone demonstrates the progress made in incorporating the cytokine technology into Arovella’s iNKT platform. The company and UNC Lineberger are expected to continue their collaboration, working towards a definitive licensing agreement, subject to satisfactory due diligence by Arovella.
Pioneer in iNKT Therapies
As the only company developing iNKT therapies in Australia and one of the few globally, Arovella Therapeutics holds a unique position in the field of iNKT cell therapy. With their innovative approach and promising experimental results, Arovella aims to advance the treatment options for various cancer types, particularly solid tumors. The collaboration with UNC Lineberger and the potential licensing agreement signify significant progress in the development of their iNKT platform.
In summary, Arovella Therapeutics is making strides in the field of cell therapy biotech by exploring the combination of its iNKT platform with UNC’s cytokine technology. The recent data demonstrating enhanced iNKT cell persistence and anti-tumor activity holds great promise for the company’s cancer-targeting approach. Arovella’s collaboration with UNC Lineberger and the optioned licensing agreement represent important steps towards advancing their innovative iNKT therapies and addressing the unmet needs in cancer treatment.
