From model to therapy: investigating monoclonal antibodies for nectins in tumor microenvironment

Ongoing Projects, Projects

Project title: UNIRI PROJECTS BY EXPERIENCED RESEARCHERS - From model to therapy: investigating monoclonal antibodies for nectins in tumor microenvironment

 

Funding source: University of Rijeka

Project code: uniri-iz-25-48

Coordinator: Prof. Tihana Lenac Roviš, PhD

Research Team:

      • Prof. Stipan Jonjić, MD, PhD
      • Asst. prof. Paola Kučan Brlić, PhD
      • Valentina Hribljan, PhD
      • Milena Hasan, PhD
      • Ema Bellulovich

Total funding: 47.345,75 €

Project implementation period: 01.10.2025. - 30.09.2029.

Brief description: Immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) immunotherapy has been approved for several target proteins and is key in the treatment of malignant diseases, but it is not effective in a large percentage of patients. PVR (CD155) is a new potential target for ICI therapies as it plays a role in tumor migration and modulation of the immune response. The first therapeutic anti-PVR antibody developed by our group has successfully completed the first phase of clinical trials (NCT05378425).

The project aims to complement the team's expertise in translating nectin-targeting antibodies into tumor immunotherapy. It includes the development of models for cell migration after antibody binding, as well as for antibody penetration into tumors using supportive media. The functionality of both new and existing antibodies will be assessed in vitro and in vivo, and compared to commercial antibodies. By combining our knowledge in monoclonal antibody development and advanced tumor models, the research contributes to new immunological therapies and provides data for the application of ICI antibodies. The project also includes team engagement in submitting new interdisciplinary projects with international partners and the private sector, publishing open science publications, strengthening the potential of young scientists and experts for project preparation and product translation, and enhancing scientific infrastructure for students and researchers..