Lifordi Immunotherapeutics presented compelling preclinical data for its lead antibody-drug conjugate LFD-200 at the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) meeting in Barcelona, demonstrating a novel approach to treating autoimmune and inflammatory disorders through targeted glucocorticoid delivery.
Targeted Glucocorticoid Delivery Platform
LFD-200 represents an innovative ADC designed to deliver potent glucocorticoids directly to immune cells, addressing the challenge of systemic toxicity associated with traditional corticosteroid therapies. The compound targets both myeloid and lymphoid cells using VISTA, a highly internalized cell surface membrane protein, enabling precise drug delivery to the intended cellular targets.
Results from multiple in vitro and in vivo studies conducted in mice and non-human primates demonstrated that LFD-200 achieves targeted and sustained delivery of its glucocorticoid payload to immune cells. Critically, the studies showed efficacy without systemic toxicity, potentially overcoming a major limitation of current glucocorticoid treatments.
Broader Platform Applications
Beyond LFD-200, Lifordi has demonstrated the versatility of its drug delivery platform by successfully applying it to other diverse payloads, including small molecules, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), and siRNA. This platform approach suggests potential applications across multiple therapeutic areas within autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Company Background and Funding
Lifordi Immunotherapeutics, based in Burlington, Massachusetts, is positioning itself as a leader in leveraging antibody-drug conjugate technology for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. The company has demonstrated efficacy in multiple preclinical disease models and has secured funding from prominent venture capital firms including ARCH Venture Partners, 5AM Ventures, and Atlas Venture to support initial clinical data generation.
The company's approach represents a significant departure from traditional ADC applications in oncology, instead focusing on the substantial unmet medical need in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions where targeted drug delivery could provide therapeutic benefits while minimizing systemic side effects.
