On January 19, 2024 Adaptam Therapeutics reported ERC Proof of Concept projects funded by the European Research Council (ERC) are designed for researchers who currently hold ERC projects and wish to explore the commercial potential of their research (Press release, Adaptam Therapeutics, JAN 19, 2024, View Source [SID1234657090]). These projects are focused on establishing proof of concept for an idea generated during ERC-funded projects. The €150,000 grant is primarily aimed at activities directed to exploring the commercial or societal potential of the research.
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Specifically, the "TAM-ADaCT" project presented by Adaptam Therapeutics and now supported by the ERC Proof of Concept program aims to study the efficacy of novel antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) directed against suppressor cells in the tumor microenvironment. This recently awarded ERC Proof of Concept grant builds upon a previous ERC Starting grant secured by Prof. Asis Palazon while at CIC bioGUNE.
Various immunotherapy strategies have shown promise in clinical trials, especially the use of inhibitors targeting so-called immune "checkpoint" receptors. However, current immunotherapies are effective in only a small fraction of patients, presenting a medical need that must be addressed across multiple cancer types. Notably, the tumor microenvironment has specific characteristics that affect the immune response, including reduced oxygenation, aberrant vascularization, and altered nutrient availability. All these factors influence the success of immunotherapies.
Prof. Palazon commented: "We are thrilled to receive this ERC Proof of Concept grant, which represents a pivotal step in advancing our innovative approach to targeting tumor-associated macrophages. By focusing on the immunosuppressive myeloid environment within tumors, we aim to develop a novel antibody-drug conjugate that could significantly enhance the efficacy of cancer treatments. Our goal is to offer more effective therapeutic options for patients who currently do not benefit from existing immunotherapies."