Technology

Since 2001, Immuno Research Inc. has been devoted to the research and development of a differentiated, well-tolerated class of PAMPs, the beta 1,3/1,6 glucans, which are specifically associated with fungi.

In that time we have established a world-leading position in the isolation, characterization and biology of beta 1,3/1,6 glucans. Our research has demonstrated that these molecules have a unique set of properties that set them apart from other PAMPs and make them ideal candidates as therapeutic immune modulators. These properties include:

  • Differentiated biological targets
    • Beta 1,3-1,6 glucans are recognized by a different set of receptors expressed on a range of innate immune cells.  These receptors include:
      • Complement Receptor 3 (CR3; CD11b/CD18)
      • Complement Receptor 2 (CD21)
      • Dectin 1 (CLEC7A)
      • Lactosylceramide
  • Wide therapeutic index
    • Our lead beta glucan, Imprime PGG, is administered systemically and has a strong safety profile in both healthy volunteers and patients
  • The ability to orchestrate a co-ordinated immune response
    • Preclinical studies have demonstrated that beta glucans directly impact the biological activity and function of both innate and adaptive immune cells including:
      • Modulation of immune suppressive/immune active phenotype of macrophages and neutrophils
      • Modulation/maturation of dendritic cells
      • Modulation of checkpoint proteins on myeloid cells
      • Modulation of CD4/CD8 T-cell proliferation and function

Importantly, our research has also demonstrated that the primary, secondary and tertiary structure of beta-glucans has a marked effect on their interaction with immune targets and their subsequent activity.

Our science has been the subject of a number of peer-reviewed publications in internationally recognized journals including Nature and Blood.