This technology provides a treatment strategy for patients with mutation of tumor-associated TREX proteins.
There is ample evidence that overexpression and activity of “tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factors” (TRAFs) play a large role in tumor initiation, growth and metastasis in multiple cancer types, including breast cancers, lung cancers, and osteosarcomas. However, current treatments and diagnostics ignore the “tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor protein-interacting hereditary multiple extoses” (TREX) protein. The TREX protein binds to TRAFs and upregulates the TRAF’s pro-cancer activity. Evidence of TREX involvement in cancer progression and TREX mutations that predispose individuals to cancer require diagnostic testing, and TREX-targeting therapies are not currently offered in the oncological field.
This technology provides a platform to identify mutations in TREX that predispose individuals to certain cancers, as well as to target the TREX protein to treat these cancer types. Antibodies and antisense oligonucleotides are used to inhibit the binding of the TREX protein to other cellular factors and prevent the activation of pro-tumor cellular pathways. The targeting of the TREX protein with multiple strategies provides a unique therapeutic avenue that may either be used independently or combined with other therapies for synergistic effects.
Taka-aki Sato, Ph.D.
IR 636
Licensing Contact: Jerry Kokoshka