A novel synthetic Mincle agonist
INI-1098 is a novel synthetic Mincle agonist that is being developed as a Th17-generating adjuvant for bacterial and fungal pathogens. Mincle is a C-type lectin receptor (CLR) that was originally discovered as the ligand for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) cell wall component trehalose dimycolate (TDM). Th17 cells play a key role in the immune system’s defenses against certain bacterial and fungal pathogens, including Mtb. There are currently not any Th17-inducing vaccines in clinical use. We aim to be the first with INI-1098.
In pre-clinical mouse models of TB vaccination and challenge, INI-1098 adjuvanted TB vaccination results in a Th17 and Th1 polarization of the T cell response and protects against TB challenge. Vaccine studies in larger animal models also resulted in Th17 polarized adjuvant mediated immune responses. INI-1098 will be manufactured cGMP via an NIH funded Adjuvant Development Contract.
