Mechanism of Action
The primary molecular target for ATX-MS-1467 is the MHC II protein on antigen presenting cells (APCs). Binding of ATX-MS-1467 to MHC II on APCs and presentation to naïve T cells results in induction of Treg cells. These cells synthesise interleukin 10 (IL-10) to selectively suppress antigen-specific Th cells and inhibit the production of pro-allergic and pro–inflammatory cytokines. This suppresses antigen-induced autoimmune disease.
This mechanism of action is common to many other peptides that have been clinically evaluated for the potential treatment of autoimmune diseases, e.g. Type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as cat allergy.
The peptides in ATX-MS-1467 and other product candidates being developed by Apitope were identified by a proprietary process using human T cells. The human T cells are specific for naturally processed antigens and the Apitope peptides are designed to have the potential to stimulate these cells when presented by empty MHC II at the cell surface. These peptides are therefore intended to induce a Treg response when administered in soluble form to a human carrying the appropriate MHC II receptor.
This proprietary Apitope approach to epitope selection ensures that the peptides taken into clinical evaluation are likely to be safe, well tolerated, and have a higher probability of efficacy.
