Unmet Need

  • We have found that a specific bacterium is found in several tumors (e.g., colorectal, pancreatic, esophageal, breast) and is linked to worse prognosis. 
  • The bacterium uses a unique mechanism to disarm immune cells (NK cells), helping tumors evade the immune system. 
  • It also promotes tumor proliferation and metastases formation. 

Our Innovation

We develop two complementary approaches:

  • Small-molecule inhibitors that kill the bacterium, block the mechanism it uses to disarm immune cells and inhabits tumor growth in vivo. 
  • Neutralizing monoclonal antibodies that kill the bacterium, block the mechanism it uses to disarm immune cells and inhabits tumor growth in vivo. 

Advantages

  • First-in-class strategy targeting a bacterial mechanism (target) critical for bacterium’s immune-evasion mechanism, and growth of tumors and bacterium.
  • Dual modality (small molecules + antibodies) to increase chances of success across clinical isolates.
  • Patient selection potential for bacterium-positive tumors (e.g., CRC, breast, esophageal, pancreatic). 

Commercial Opportunity

We are seeking collaboration with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, investors, and strategic partners active in oncology and microbiome-related therapeutics.

Contact in Yissum: Ariela Markel