IL-2 and anti-IL-2 mAb complexes
Our group also focuses on tumor immunotherapy using complexes of IL-2 and anti-IL-2 mAb (referred to as IL-2 complexes). These IL-2 complexes exhibit significantly higher biological activity in vivo compared to free IL-2. Moreover, IL-2 complexes selectively stimulate either CD25+ cells or CD122high cell populations. The specific anti-IL-2 mAb clone used to form the respective IL-2 complex determines this selective activity.
Immunocytokines
We are collaborating with the group of Jamie B. Spangler (Johns Hopkins University, USA) on developing of so-called immunocytokines (ICs). ICs mimic the above-described IL-2 complexes both structurally and functionally but are fusion (chimeric) recombinant proteins with many advantages over IL-2 complexes.
Improving the immunotherapy of malignant diseases
Tumor immunotherapy has made tremendous progress over the past two decades, and the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has significantly improved the prognosis for patients with several types of malignancies. IL-2 complexes and IL-2-based ICs exhibit promising antitumor activity. Therefore, we are studying their potential to enhance immunotherapy of malignancies with ICIs,primarily anti-CTLA-4 and/or anti-PD-1 mAbs.
Combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy
We are also exploring the possibility of combining immunotherapy using IL-2 complexes with chemotherapy based on the use of the above mentioned polymer conjugates. The rationale is that polymeric nanotherapeutics have lower systemic toxicity and, specifically, lower immunosuppressive activity compared to conventional cytostatics.
