The project, titled "Design of a New Tailored Antibody Concept for Combating Cancer," has received NOK 500,000 from the Norwegian Cancer Society.
"In this innovation project, we will explore the potential of new forms of unique designer antibodies," Professor Jan Terje Andersen from the University of Oslo says.
The goal is to ensure that more antibodies reach the cancer cells and are better equipped to destroy them by engaging the immune system.
Andersen leads one of the research groups at the Precision Immunotherapy Alliance (PRIMA), a Centre of Excellence funded by the Research Council of Norway.
Monoclonal antibodies have revolutionised cancer treatment
The antibodies currently being designed are known as monoclonal antibodies. However, they look somewhat different. These designer antibodies are created in the laboratory and mimic the immune system's ability to fight cancer cells, but in an even better way.
This form of cancer immunotherapy is now considered one of the four pillars in the fight against cancer, alongside surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
"The use of antibodies has revolutionised cancer treatment. In fact, monoclonal antibodies are the fastest-growing class of drugs and have a significant impact on human health, especially in oncology," Professor Andersen says.
Great interest in designer antibodies
However, many patients with advanced cancer do not respond to current immunotherapy as not all cancer cells are killed.
"There is therefore great interest in developing the next generation of monoclonal antibodies. We have very promising results with our new designer antibodies from preliminary trials. The goal is to kill cancer cells," the Professor explains.
Knowledge in use: Satisfied with the support from the Norwegian Cancer Society
The Professor believes that it is important to support projects that combine groundbreaking research with innovation. This helps ensure that the knowledge from research can be put to use and benefit more patients.
"It is fantastic that the Norwegian Cancer Society is taking a strategic approach and prioritises to support projects that aim to test the innovation potential of new cancer treatments," Andersen says.
"More innovation projects will make it more likely that we can translate groundbreaking research findings into commercialisation and new products. This will benefit patients in the long run. Research alone does not cure patients," he continues.
Andersen and his colleagues are collaborating with Inven2 to evaluate a patenting strategy related to the new concept.