InteRNA Technologies B.V.

InteRNA is a Dutch biotechnology company specializing in the development of RNA therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. Using its leading microRNA (miRNA) discovery and functional validation platform, InteRNA is developing a pipeline of proprietary preclinical miRNA drug candidates targeting key processes in cancer initiation and progression. Enabled with a 3rd generation drug delivery formulation, these miRNA compounds can mount a coordinated anti-cancer attack by engaging multiple signal transduction targets simultaneously. With this approach, we address the high need for novel therapeutics with improved efficacy and less drug resistance that really benefit cancer patients.

miRNAs provide a unique simultaneous regulation of multiple mRNA targets and as such 1. block activated cancer signaling pathways, and 2. prevent activation of alternative cancer signaling pathways, leading to improved long term control of advanced tumors and reduced relapse rates.

Lead drug candidate INT-1B3 is a LNP-formulated, chemically modified miRNA mimic inducing apoptosis through caspase activation and PARP cleavage. In addition, INT-1B3 regulates the adenosine-A2A receptor pathway (through regulation of ATP->adenosine converting enzymes CD39 and CD73), inhibiting the escape from immune surveillance, and in parallel makes immune ‘cold' tumors ‘hot' through recruitment of CD8+ Teff cells and downregulation of LAG-3/FoxP3 Treg cells. Its MoA further encompasses regulation of CyclinD1, Mcl-1, K-Ras, c-Kit and TIM-3.

We aim to initially develop INT-1B3 for treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Yet the compound also qualifies for melanoma, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and lung cancer (NSCLC). In HCC, INT-1B3 may be positioned for 2nd line treatment of sorafenib-resistant HCC patients, or as 1st line treatment in combination with sorafenib.