AUPM-170

AUPM-170 is an orally bioavailable small molecule dual antagonist targeting the immune checkpoint proteins Programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) and V-set immunoregulatory receptor (VISTA). Developed by Aurigene Discovery Technologies, it is designed to overcome the limitations of antibody-based checkpoint inhibitors, such as the requirement for intravenous administration and long half-lives that can lead to immune-related adverse events (irAEs). By simultaneously blocking PD-L1 and VISTA, AUPM-170 aims to enhance T-cell activation and anti-tumor immune responses. Preclinical studies in syngeneic tumor models of melanoma, breast, and colon cancer demonstrated significant efficacy and a favorable safety profile. As of 2016, IND-enabling studies were underway to advance the compound into clinical development.