Vascular Targeting System

VTS™ is designed to be both tissue- and condition-specific. By harnessing nature and using our body’s molecular machinery, it allows for targeted and limited gene expression in endothelial cells, the thin layer of cells that lines the interior surface of blood vessels undergoing angiogenesis.
The platform is made up of three components: a viral vector, novel promoter and therapeutic gene.

Lead Candidate - Ofra-Vec

Ofra-Vec's Dual Mechanism of Action Is Designed To Combine Vascular Disruption With Anti-Tumor Immune Response



Ofra-Vec is designed with the following characteristics and potential advantages
- Viral vector (Adenovirus Type 5) - Delivers gene construct to target cells and designed to create a LOCALIZED IMMUNE RESPONSE in the tumor micro-environment. Unlike challenges seen with therapeutics using an adeno-associated virus, our adenovirus can be re-dosed chronically.
- Promoter (PPE 1-3x) - Imparts SPECIFICITY for angiogenic endothelial cells. Engineered to contain the anti-angiogenic effect to tumor microvasculature potentially without affecting other healthy vasculature or tissues.
- Death receptor (TNF-Induced) - Takes advantage of high tumor necrosis factor (“TNF”)- alpha levels in tumors to enhance activity. Once the TNF receptor is engaged in the tumor micro-environment, it is designed to induce a self-death process in the tumor microvasculature (blood vessels), potentially leading to VASCULAR DISRUPTION, TUMOR STARVATION and IMMUNE RECRUITMENT.
Through its unique dual mechanism, ofra-vec offers "2 drugs in 1".
The mechanism of ofra-vec remains under investigation.
Ofra-vec has received orphan drug designation for the treatment of ovarian cancer and for the treatment of glioma by the European Commission. The FDA granted ofra-vec orphan drug designation for the treatment of malignant glioma and fast track designation for the treatment of recurrent glioblastoma and the treatment of platinum-resistant ovarian cancer in combination with paclitaxel.
Publications

