Researchers at Léon Bérard Cancer Center (CLB) will use artificial intelligence (AI) based bioanalysis and bioinformatics to identify novel targets in immuno-oncology.

This research program will use different patient cohorts and tumour biopsies to identify novel molecular targets associated with the primary and secondary resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors and to validate a strategy of combining drugs based on target expression profile.

The research is based on an artificial intelligence approach jointly developed which will be applied to analyse gene expression in the human tumour microenvironment and the composition of tumour infiltrates.

The findings from this collaboration will be used for the selection and validation of innovative targets for the early development of new drug candidates from the platform of bispecific fusion proteins targeting PD-1 and innovative targets.

“We are very excited to begin a new collaboration with an expert team and the CLB, a premier cancer research centre. The goal of this partnership is to identify and validate new targets that will help streamline the development of new treatment approaches for cancer, especially in difficult to treat tumours,” said Alexis Peyroles, chief executive officer of OSE Immunotherapeutics.

Professor Jean-Yves Blay, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Léon Bérard Cancer Center commented, "Our AI approach combined with our translational and immunological research platforms will enable us to analyse tumour immune parameters and to identify potential new pathways to address unmet needs for cancer patients. This partnership brings together top experts in oncology research and translational science with the hopes of rapidly advancing the discovery of first-class treatment options for cancer patients."

Source: OSE Immunotherapeutics