Exploration of targeting GPR56 and its cancer cell ligand as a novel immune checkpoint inhibition strategy

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy over the last decade. In essence, ICIs block the interaction of immunosuppressive receptors and their ligands, which attenuate T cell activity and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Blocking these inhibitory signals results in the release of immunosuppression and promotes anti-tumor T cell reactivity.

Research Collaboration

Unpublished data from our research group, emerging in collaboration with the biotech company InProTher, suggests a novel immune checkpoint receptor-ligand pair consisting of an adhesion G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and a viral protein.

Research Focus

With therapeutic targeting of GPCRs being our main focus, we - together with our collaboration partner InProTher - aim to investigate the blockade of the interaction between:

• Immune cells expressing the adhesion GPCR
• Cancer cells expressing the viral protein

This investigation serves as a novel ICI and cancer therapy strategy.

Importance of Exploration

The exploration of novel immune checkpoints and expanding the repertoire of cancer therapy drugs are paramount for:

1. Overcoming therapeutic resistance
2. Advancing cancer treatment