Columbia Technology Ventures

Antibody therapeutic targeting Funsobacterium nucleatum-mediated diseases

This technology is a monoclonal antibody which binds annexin for the inhibition of Funsobacterium nucleatum (Fn) invasion and proliferation to treat and prevent Fn related diseases including colorectal cancer and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP).

Unmet Need: Targeted treatment of Fn infections

Funsobacterium nucleatum (Fn) is a commensal bacterium whose presence has been associated with a spectrum of human diseases, such as colorectal cancer or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis. Fn can be targeted with current antibiotics, but this therapeutic strategy disrupts the entire human microbiome. There is a need for therapeutics specifically targeting Fn infection, and preventing diseases associated with Fn presence.

The Technology: Specific monoclonal antibody against Funsobacterium nucleatum

This technology is a monoclonal antibody which binds annexin AI and inhibits binding of Funsobacterium nucleatum (Fn) to host cells. This antibody can therefore serve as a targeted antibiotic against Fn infection. Targeted blocking of Fn invasion and proliferation could be useful as a next-generation prevention and treatment method of Fn-mediated diseases.

This technology has been validated with colorectal cancer cells in vitro.

Applications:

  • Treatment against Funsobacterium nucleatum (Fn)
  • Prevention of Funsobacterium nucleatum -mediated diseases
  • Research tool for studying role of Funsobacterium nucleatum in human diseases

Advantages:

  • Targeted therapeutic agent
  • Does not impact the entire human flora
  • Prophylactic and treatment of cancer including colorectal, pancreatic, liver, lung, bladder, small intestine, endometrium or melanoma cancer as well as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)
  • Prevents Funsobacterium nucleatum binding to colorectal cells in vitro

Lead Inventor:

Yiping Han, Ph.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Pending (WO/2022/16672)

Related Publications:

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