TRX518 is a unique, targeted T cell immunomodulator that activates the glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor (GITR) found on multiple types of T cells. Activating GITR on T effector cells with a T cell modulating agent plays a role in enhancing the immune system’s ability to attack tumors by activating T effector cells and rendering them resistant to suppression by T regulatory cells. 

Preclinical proof of concept studies established that administration of an anti-GITR antibody together with chemotherapeutic drugs was synergistic in multiple models of established and metastatic cancer. GITR-activating immunotherapeutics are expected to be more potent than cancer vaccines, because they have the ability to induce both the activation of tumor-antigen-specific T effector cells, as well as abrogate the suppression induced by inappropriately activated T regulatory cells. Tolerx has an open IND from FDA for TRX518 and expects to begin a first-in-human study in Q4, 2010.

GITR was ranked 12th in a list of agents with high potential for use in treating cancer at a National Cancer Institute (NCI) workshop in 2007. Click here for more information.


We are currently seeking a collaborative partner to participate in the development and commercialization of TRX518. Please direct all inquiries to businessdevelopment@tolerx.com