BAPOTULIMAB

ILDR2 is a novel immune checkpoint target with a unique mechanism of action discovered computationally by Compugen. While ILDR2 demonstrates an inhibitory effect on T cells, consistent with its role as an immune checkpoint ligand, preclinical data suggest that ILDR2 inhibition exerts its effects on immune cell priming rather than on directly enhancing immune cell killing effects in the tumor microenvironment.

BAPOTULIMAB, the lead antibody targeting ILDR2, is a human/mouse cross-reactive antibody blocking the immunosuppressive activity of ILDR2.

BAPOTULIMAB exhibited anti-tumor activity as a monotherapy in various mouse models, and was also shown to have additive/synergistic anti-tumor effects in combination with other cancer therapy approaches, indicating the possibility for multiple combination approaches for use in cancer immunotherapy. Following joint preclinical research, this program was transferred to Bayer for further development.