RPK-739

RPK-739 is a cancer immunotherapy candidate developed by Replikun Biotech, a spin-off from the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR). It utilizes the Kunjin virus replicon (KUNrep) technology, which is based on a self-amplifying RNA vector derived from the Australian Kunjin virus, a subtype of the West Nile virus. The platform is designed to replicate vigorously in cells without triggering immediate anti-viral defenses, allowing for sustained expression of therapeutic payloads. RPK-739 specifically expresses Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF) to recruit and activate dendritic cells within the tumor microenvironment, thereby stimulating a systemic anti-tumor immune response. The drug was primarily investigated for the treatment of head and neck cancers, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Although it reached the pre-clinical stage and was prepared for clinical trials, development ceased when Replikun Biotech entered liquidation in 2009.

Other names

Cancer vaccine (KUNrep)