December 30, 2017

Our Science

Why B cells?

Therapeutic interventions for immunological diseases have largely focused on T cells for the last 30 years. However, the importance of B cells during disease development and clinical management has become evident with therapies that globally deplete or target all B cells, such as the monoclonal antibody RITUXAN® (rituximab).

Specific B cell subsets are now known to serve critical regulatory functions during immune responses, and B cells provide essential protective functions during infections. Therapies that selectively target specific B cell subsets and their functions remain elusive.

Our proprietary technology platforms focus on unique aspects of regulatory B lymphocyte (B10 cell) biology that are involved in controlling a variety of autoimmune diseases, inflammatory immune responses and cancer immunotherapy. B10 cells represent a small subset of B cells that reduces immune responses and autoimmunity through their capacity to secrete interleukin 10 (IL-10), a potent inhibitory cytokine.

Technology

We are advancing two B10 cell-based technologies that can either enhance or inhibit immune responses. We believe this technology has the potential to profoundly advance treatments for inflammation, autoimmunity, solid tumors and infection.

Pipeline

Our first-in-class regulatory B10 cell-directed therapies are unique in their approach and distinguish us from others working in the immunotherapy area. We have one of the leading pipelines in B cell therapy.

Publications

The science behind our technology is well-vetted and supported by numerous peer-reviewed publications.