nanoplexed poly I:C

BO-112 is a synthetic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) drug candidate designed as a viral mimetic for cancer immunotherapy. It consists of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) formulated with the cationic carrier polyethyleneimine (PEI), creating a nanoplexed structure that enhances intracellular delivery and stability against nuclease degradation. Administered intratumorally or intralesionally, BO-112 activates innate immune sensors including Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3), melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), and retinoic acid-inducible gene I protein (RIG-I). This activation leads to the induction of type I interferon responses and stimulates cytotoxic cytokine release, promoting tumor cell death through both direct cytotoxicity and immune-mediated mechanisms. Preclinical studies have shown synergy with checkpoint inhibitors such as anti-PD-1 antibodies. Clinically, it is being developed primarily for aggressive solid tumors including basal cell carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, malignant melanoma and others. Developed by Highlight Therapeutics and Merck Sharp & Dohme.

Other names

polyinosinic:polycytidylic acidpoly I:C