Novel Class of Immunoregulatory Agents Identified

Scientists have identified a new class of immunoregulatory oligonucleotides, short DNA sequences that enhance or redirect the immune response to treat disease and prevent inflammation. A paper describing this new class, called CpG-C, was published in the June 30, 2003, issue of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology.

Previously, two classes of CpG-containing oligonucleotides had been recognized, termed CpG-A and CpG-B. The new CpG-C class combines two important biologic activities: enhanced antigen presentation and strong interferon-alpha responses. Identified by scientists at Dynavax Technologies (Berkeley, CA, USA), the new sequences are being evaluated by Dynavax for potential clinical activity. Currently, Dynavax is conducting human clinical trials in allergy, asthma, cancer, and infectious disease with a prototype of the CpG-B class, proven to enhance or redirect immune responses to a variety of antigens.

"The identification of this new class of CpG molecules is an example of Dynavax's ongoing efforts to advance the science of immune system regulation,” said Dino Dina, M.D., president and CEO of Dynavax. "We expect further developments to arise from these efforts that will provide greater potency and efficacy in the clinic against a range of important human diseases.”




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