MacTriggers

MacTriggers are a novel cell-based therapy consisting of genetically engineered macrophages designed to treat chemoresistant solid tumors. These modified macrophages are programmed to release tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in response to arginase 1 (Arg1) activity, which is a marker uniquely expressed by M2-like tumor-associated macrophages within the immunosuppressive microenvironment of solid tumors. Upon intravenous administration, MacTriggers infiltrate tumors and induce acute inflammation via TNF-α release, converting the local environment from immunosuppressive to immune-active. This process recruits natural killer cells and cytotoxic T cells, enhancing anti-tumor immunity and overcoming resistance seen with conventional therapies such as chemotherapy or CAR-T cell therapy. Importantly, because normal tissues do not polarize these cells into the M2 phenotype, off-target inflammation is minimized. Preclinical studies have shown that MacTriggers can suppress growth of drug-resistant tumors without causing significant side effects observed with standard chemotherapeutics like doxorubicin[1][2][6][8].

Brand names

MacTriggers

Other names

Inflammation-triggering engineered macrophagesengineered macrophages (MacTriggers)