NAYA Biosciences Introduces Novel PD-1 x VEGF Antibody for Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Solid Tumors
NAYA Biosciences has announced the expansion of its bifunctional antibody pipeline. The company has introduced a PD-1 x VEGF tetravalent bifunctional antibody designed for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and other solid tumours.
This development leverages NAYA’s proprietary FLEX antibody platform and incorporates advanced design optimisation through its partnership with MabSilico, an artificial intelligence (AI) and deep-technology Company. This collaboration aims to accelerate the creation of innovative therapeutic candidates targeting key medical needs.
The new PD-1 x VEGF antibody, NY-500, combines dual-targeting of immune checkpoint PD-1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
This approach is expected to improve immune responses and disrupt tumour vasculature, which could enhance clinical outcomes for solid tumour patients.
The company has indicated that recent clinical data from similar therapies, such as ivonescimab, have shown superior results compared to current standards of care like Keytruda® for certain cancers, further supporting the potential of this approach. NY-500 is anticipated to enter Phase 1/2a clinical trials by early 2026.
Additionally, NAYA is progressing the development of NY-303, a GPC3-targeting bifunctional antibody aimed at HCC patients unresponsive to PD-1 and VEGF therapies. Preclinical data presented at the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) indicated that NY-303 could potentially reverse resistance to PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors and re-sensitise tumours to immunotherapy.
The PD-(L)1 therapeutic market continues to grow, with projections exceeding $50 billion by 2025, according to IQVIA. With its innovative FLEX platform and AI-driven advancements, NAYA Biosciences aims to deliver novel therapies addressing significant unmet medical needs in oncology.
