KisoJi Biotechnology Inc. has announced a $41 million equity financing to propel its lead program, KJ-103, a first-in-class naked antibody targeting TROP2, into clinical trials for solid tumors. The financing, led by Investissement Quebec and Lumira Ventures, will also support the advancement of KisoJi's antibody discovery platform using AI for novel multi-specific antibody therapeutics.
Advancing KJ-103 into Clinical Trials
KJ-103 is a single domain antibody designed to bind to a unique epitope on TROP2, a protein overexpressed in various solid tumors. Unlike existing TROP2-targeting antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), KJ-103 functions by engaging immune cells to eliminate tumor cells, foregoing the need for a cytotoxic payload. Preclinical studies have demonstrated significant anti-tumor activity with no observed toxicity or resistance across multiple solid tumor models.
KisoJi has established a clinical development partnership with Cancer Research UK to conduct a first-in-human clinical trial involving approximately 100 patients. This trial will evaluate the safety and efficacy of KJ-103 as a monotherapy in patients with TROP2-expressing solid tumors. The trial aims to establish proof-of-concept for KJ-103's mechanism of action and its potential as a novel cancer immunotherapy.
KisoJi's Innovative Antibody Discovery Platform
The financing will also bolster the deployment of KisoJi's cutting-edge antibody discovery platform, including KisoSeekTM, an antibody paratope map that visualizes immune responses against specific targets. This platform leverages AI and machine learning to enhance antibody discovery and identify novel therapeutic candidates.
KisoJi's platform incorporates a suite of camelid transgenic mice (KisoMouse®) that generate single-domain antibodies, contributing to the company's extensive single-domain antibody database. The KisoBodyTM, KisoJi's modular multi-specific antibody format, allows for the creation of customizable and manufacturable tri-specific antibodies with high titers in commercial production cell lines (greater than 6 g/L).
Management Commentary
"Through the support of our new and existing investors, this financing will enable KisoJi to continue its development of pipeline assets in oncology, cardiometabolic and immunology indications using our cutting-edge platform and AI tools," said David Young, co-founder and CEO of KisoJi.
Bicha Ngo, President and CEO of Investissement Québec, stated, "This funding will allow KisoJi Biotechnology to hit critical milestones in its operations, from completing preclinical activities to launching clinical trials, notably through a landmark agreement with Cancer Research UK..."
