NextPoint Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a new class of precision immuno-oncology and tumor-directed therapeutics targeting the novel B7-H7 axis, has unveiled NPX372, a novel T cell engager. NPX372 further expands NextPoint’s multi-modal focus on the emerging B7-H7 axis in cancer therapy.

B7-H7, also known as HHLA2, is an emerging immunomodulatory receptor upregulated in various solid tumor types, including colorectal carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, and many others. Notably, this receptor is induced independently of PD-L1 or other B7 family members. Unlike other B7 family proteins that are expressed across a wide range of cell types, B7-H7 is primarily found on the epithelial cells of tumors, making it a unique and potentially specific target for tumor-directed therapies.

“T cell engagers have shown immense potential, but to date their application in solid tumors has remained a formidable challenge. NPX372 represents a significant advancement, aiming to redirect T cell-mediated immunity with high specificity by modulating key biological components, potentially offering more effective monotherapy treatment options for a range of solid tumors,” said Tatiana Novobrantseva, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer of NextPoint Therapeutics.

NPX372 is a CD3 bispecific antibody with unique capabilities to redirect T cell-mediated cytotoxicity toward B7-H7-positive tumors. In addition to CD3 engagement, this antibody interacts with the B7-H7 immune axis to achieve added potency. Preclinical data highlight NPX372’s potent anti-tumor responses and a favorable safety profile at clinically relevant doses with no indication of cytokine release syndrome. This asset is part of NextPoint's diverse portfolio of immunotherapies designed to target various tumor types. NextPoint is rapidly advancing the Investigational New Drug (IND) application for NPX372.

“NPX372 represents a significant advancement in our pursuit of precision immunotherapy," said Ivan Cheung, CEO of NextPoint Therapeutics. “As part of our ongoing immune checkpoint clinical programs, NPX267 and NPX887, we have developed a clinical biomarker for B7-H7 expression, which allows us to selectively target patients across various tumor types who may benefit from a potent T cell engager such as NPX372. This precision medicine approach allows us to potentially address solid tumors expressing B7-H7, tailoring treatments to those who will respond best. Our deep knowledge of B7-H7 biology drives our leadership in advancing innovative, transformative treatments that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients.”