Calidi Biotherapeutics Inc. recently presented data regarding CLD-401 as an immunotherapeutic approach developed using the Redtail gene therapy platform. This platform uses a tumor-specific, replicating enveloped vaccinia virus that expresses a chimeric form of CD55 to allow complement and neutralizing antibody resistance, as well as systemic administration.
Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase kinase 1 (HPK1) is a serine/threonine protein kinase that is expressed in the hematopoietic compartment, exerting regulatory functions in myeloid and innate immune cells. It has been associated with decreased T-cell activation and proliferation.
CD137 is a potent immune costimulatory receptor that promotes T-cell activation and enhances antitumor immune responses. However, systemic activation of CD137 can result in excessive immune stimulation and associated safety risks, such as hepatotoxicity, limiting its clinical use.