Introduction
- The tumor microenvironment creates physical barriers that reduce the effectiveness of immunotherapies and nanomedicines.
- These barriers limit drug penetration, impair blood flow, and contribute to treatment resistance.
- Candesartan, an FDA-approved antihypertensive drug, has shown the ability to remodel the tumor microenvironment.
- However, the systemic use of candesartan in cancer patients is limited by its blood pressure-lowering effects.
Our Innovation
- Nano-candesartan is a PEGylated nano-liposomal formulation designed to deliver candesartan selectively to tumors.
- The technology is based on the same lipid composition as DOXIL®, the first FDA-approved nanodrug.
- Nano-candesartan is designed to normalize the tumor microenvironment, improve penetration of anticancer therapies into tumors, and enhance the efficacy of immunotherapies and nanomedicines.
- Preclinical studies demonstrated:
- Prolonged circulation time and selective accumulation in tumors.
- No significant effect on blood pressure in animal models.
- Reduced tumor growth and improved survival alone and in combination with checkpoint inhibitors.
Advantages
- Novel approach targeting the physical barriers of solid tumors.
- Repurposes an FDA-approved drug, potentially supporting an accelerated clinical pathway.
- Tumor-selective delivery minimizes systemic side effects.
- Potential synergy with immunotherapies and other anticancer treatments.
- Stable and scalable nano-liposomal formulation.
Commercial Opportunity
- We are seeking collaboration with pharmaceutical and immuno-oncology companies to advance Nano-candesartan toward clinical development and commercialization.
- Nano-candesartan may improve the effectiveness of immunotherapies in resistant solid tumors.
- The global cancer immunotherapy market was estimated at USD 153.27 billion in 2025.
