HERA-CD40L

HERA-CD40L is a hexavalent CD40 agonist fusion protein developed by Apogenix for cancer immunotherapy. It is built on the proprietary HERA-ligand technology platform, which utilizes three receptor-binding domains in a single-chain arrangement linked to an Fc-silenced human IgG1, resulting in a hexavalent molecule. Unlike many other CD40-targeting agents, HERA-CD40L acts as a pure agonist that does not require Fcγ receptor-mediated crosslinking for its biological activity. The drug targets CD40, a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily expressed on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) such as dendritic cells, B cells, and macrophages. By agonizing CD40, HERA-CD40L triggers the maturation of dendritic cells, enhances antigen presentation, and promotes a phenotypic shift in macrophages from a pro-tumor M2-type to an anti-tumor M1-type, ultimately driving a robust T-cell-mediated anti-tumor immune response. Preclinical studies have demonstrated significant anti-tumor efficacy in various models, including prostate cancer.

Other names

CD40-fusion proteinCD-40-fusion proteinCD 40-fusion proteinApogenix CD40 agonist