IMC-001
Our vaccination technology has already been successfully validated by immunogenicity examination and viral challenge studies in mouse and non-human primate models. In this project, we have developed a PD-1-enhanced therapeutic HIV DNA vaccine, termed ICVAX, that encodes for a soluble PD-1 domain fused to a bivalent chimeric HIV antigen. As a DNA vaccine, ICVAX can be repeatedly used to boost anti-HIV immune responses without issues of pre-existing immunity against vaccine vector. Its safety has also been demonstrated in preclinical GLP toxicity studies. Immuno Cure has recently obtained the IND approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for conducting a Phase 1 clinical trial of IMC-001 in Mainland China.
IMC-002
Based on our PD-1-enhanced DNA vaccine platform, a COVID-19 DNA vaccine for SARS-CoV-2, namely ICCOV, has been constructed. Compared to non-targeting vaccines, pre-clinical tests in animal models demonstrate that ICCOV not only triggers a high level of neutralizing antibody response against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants, but also induces a potent polyfunctional cytotoxic CD8+ T cell immune responses. More importantly, the efficacy of this vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 infection has been validated in mouse models. In collaboration with HKU, the first-in-human clinical trial of ICCOV has recently completed. The vaccine is safe and immunogenic in human. In addition, we are conducting R&D on the booster vaccination strategy and next generation ICCOV vaccines targeting SARS-CoV-2 variants.
IMC-003
Preclinical studies show that the IMC-003 vaccine, encoding a PD-1-linked tumour-associated antigen, provides effective control against established mesothelioma in combination with an immune checkpoint inhibitor in animal models. We are also developing new therapeutic vaccines targeting additional tumour-associated antigens for treating ovarian, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers.
IMC-004
IMC-004 is a blocking antibody against ∆42PD1, a unique PD-1 isoform. Preclinical studies show that the antibody has potential therapeutic effects against inflammatory-related diseases, including cancers. We are currently conducting drug candidate optimisation. In addition, the efficacy of IMC-004 to treat liver and colorectal cancers is being evaluated in preclinical animal models.
IMC-005
We are currently developing novel needleless injection systems for DNA vaccination, aiming to improve DNA vaccine efficiency and to minimise the invasiveness of electroporation.