Strategic Collaboration Forms to Evaluate Live Biotherapeutics in Solid Tumours

A strategic collaboration has been formed between 4D pharma and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, which is aimed at evaluating 4D’s live biotherapeutic oncology pipeline across a range of cancer settings.

Combining MD Anderson’s translational medicine and clinical research capabilities with 4D’s expertise in the discovery and development of live biotherapeutics, the alliance will initially assess MRx0518, which is 4D’s lead oncology candidate, as a potential treatment for solid tumors. The first clinical study will evaluate MRx0518 in combination with Keytruda and will be performed in collaboration with Merck.

Additionally, further studies, including the evaluation of MRx0518 in combination with sterotactic body radiotherapy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, are planned under the collaboration between 4D and MD Anderson.

“This alliance will provide a strong and long-term foundation for the development of 4D’s Live Biotherapeutics in cancer,” commented Duncan Peyton, 4D’s chief executive officer. “The current study, which will be one of the first live biotherapeutic programs to reach the clinic in the immuno-oncology space, represents an important step forward in the development of MRx0518 and 4D’s broader oncology franchise. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners at MD Anderson to progress this study and help bring this therapy to patients.”

“MD Anderson is focused on providing the best possible care for cancer patients, including implementing the latest new treatment modalities,” said Shubham Pant, MBBS, associate professor of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics at MD Anderson. “The gut microbiome has emerged as an important next-generation target in cancer therapy, and we hope that live biotherapeutics will have the potential to make a significant difference for patients across a range of cancers.”

Source: 4D pharma