IL-22-ScFv

IL-22-ScFv is a preclinical-stage targeted cytokine fusion protein designed to deliver the therapeutic benefits of interleukin-22 (IL-22) specifically to the liver and pancreas while avoiding systemic toxicities. Developed by researchers at the Mater Research Institute-University of Queensland, the molecule consists of IL-22 linked to a single-chain variable fragment (ScFv) that targets specific tissue antigens. IL-22 is a known inhibitor of cellular stress that signals through the IL-22 receptor complex to activate the STAT3 pathway. By targeting the liver and pancreas, IL-22-ScFv aims to treat metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH/NASH) by improving glucose tolerance, reducing hepatic steatosis, and attenuating fibrosis. Preclinical studies in murine models have shown that this targeted approach maintains metabolic efficacy while significantly reducing the hyperproliferative side effects in the skin and gut typically associated with systemic IL-22 administration.

Other names

targeted IL-22