IGF Oncology is focused on developing innovative cancer therapies that aim to improve efficacy while minimizing side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. Their lead drug, IGF-MTX, is a conjugate of methotrexate, a well-known chemotherapy agent, linked to a targeting protein that specifically binds to cancer cells. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that IGF-MTX is significantly more effective than methotrexate alone, showing a 15-fold increase in efficacy in animal models, while also exhibiting a markedly lower incidence of side effects, such as the preservation of blood cell counts. This drug has successfully completed a Phase 1 clinical trial in patients with advanced solid tumors and is currently undergoing further testing for its effectiveness in treating myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) at the Mayo Clinic.

The underlying technology of IGF Oncology leverages the natural role of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) in promoting cell division, which is a characteristic feature of cancer cells. Research indicates that IGF receptors are overexpressed on various cancer cells, including aggressive forms of breast cancer, making them prime targets for therapy. By conjugating methotrexate with IGF, IGF Oncology's approach allows for targeted delivery of the chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, thereby sparing healthy cells and reducing toxicity. This targeted mechanism not only enhances the therapeutic effect but also addresses the critical need for treatments that do not compromise patients' blood cell counts, particularly in conditions like MDS where maintaining blood cell levels is crucial for patient safety.

United States

IGF Oncology, LLC Our Mission: IGF Oncology is developing novel cancer drugs that have better efficacy and lower side effects than existing cancer chemotherapy drugs.

IGF Oncology

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