Major histocompatibility complex class I-related protein A and B (MICA and MICB) are ligands for the natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) receptor and are widely expressed on tumor cells, with very limited expression on normal tissues.

CCR8 is highly expressed on immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs) in various solid tumors, making it a potential target to enhance antitumor immunity and the efficacy of cancer therapies, including checkpoint inhibitors. However, the impact of CCR8 expression on the Treg phenotype and its role in cancer progression remain unclear.

A recent study explored the therapeutic potential of hu128.1, a humanized antibody targeting transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1), in treating erythroleukemia using xenograft mouse models. The results demonstrate that hu128.1 exerts strong antitumor activity against human erythroleukemic (ERY-1) cells, highlighting its promise as a candidate for managing this aggressive cancer.

Abnormal fusion of the FGFR2 gene, encoding the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2, occurs in several types of cancer, including in up to 15% of cases of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a complex disease with poor prognosis and its clinical management still remains a challenge in the field. Since both BCMA and GPRC5D are overexpressed in MM cells, a therapeutic approach targeting both would be of interest. Qilu Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. is hence developing a dual BCMA- and GPRC5D-targeting antibody – QLS-4131 – for the treatment of MM.

Genrab Inc. has completed a private placement with aggregate gross proceeds of $5.6 million dollars.