Nicola M G Smith
Immunocore Limited, UK
Title: ImmTACâ„¢ molecules: Novel bi-functional TCR-based biologicals for targeted immunotherapy
Biography
Biography: Nicola M G Smith
Abstract
Immunocore has developed a unique biologic platform through the creation of soluble T-cell receptors (monoclonal TCRs)
targeting specific peptides in the context of MHC Class I. Anti-cancer mTCRs have been engineered to produce bi-specific
drugs that modulate T-cell activity: Immune mobilizing monoclonal TCRs against Cancer (ImmTAC). The ability of ImmTAC
molecules to bind intracellular peptides presented by MHC Class I expands the addressable antigenic landscape. ImmTAC
molecules are able to specifically and potently redirect T-cell activity against tumor cells. Our lead program, IMCgp100
targeting malignant melanoma, shows promise as a first-in-class immunotherapeutic agent with a well-tolerated safety profile
and promising signs of durable efficacy in both cutaneous and uveal melanoma. The ImmTAC technology joins a contingent
of immunotherapies that offer an exciting approach towards durable responses in oncology but also the prospect of expanding
the range of indications beyond cancer into infectious and autoimmune diseases. Reengineering the ImmTAC molecule to
incorporate immune-suppressive modalities offers an exciting therapeutic opportunity in the context of autoimmunity.