The opportunity

• Activated CD52^hi CD4⁺ T cells are immune-suppressive and shed soluble CD52 (sCD52)
• Recombinant sCD52-Fc is a promising novel therapeutic for autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders.
• Unique MOA: sCD52-Fc targets overactivated T cells, neutralises HMGB1 and suppresses innate immune responses.

Immune and inflammatory disorders affect up to four per cent of the global population and can lead to irreversible tissue damage. Current therapies (such as immune suppressants) are sub-optimal and many are approaching the end of their patent life.

CD52-based therapies promise greater clinical efficacy and represent a unique patent-protected therapeutic mechanism.

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The technology

Administration of soluble CD52-Fc reduces incidence of diabetes and sepsis in preclinical models, with no demonstrable adverse effects. Ongoing studies characterising key co-factors and CD52 glycosylation structure-function may yield new IP.

Opportunities for partnership 

This is an opportunity to develop a soluble CD52-based novel immune checkpoint as a treatment for immune and inflammatory disorders, with a focus on psoriasis.

We have:

• Unique expertise in CD52 structure-function and biology, production/purification.
• Access to a range of animal models of immune and inflammatory diseases.
• Extensive patent protection fully owned and co-owned with our collaborators.

We are seeking an industry partner with:

• Technical expertise in glycosylated protein engineering.
• Commercial interest in immunology and inflammation.
• Experience in designing a pathway to clinical trials for biologics.

Scientific team

Professor Len C. Harrison, Laboratory Head, Population Health and Immunity division

Dr Esther Bandala-Sanchez, Senior scientist, Population Health and Immunity division

Contact

Dr Anne-Laure Puaux, Head, Commercialisation

Phone: +61 3 9345 2175 

Email: partnering@wehi.edu.au