TLR Technology
Toll-like Receptors, TLRs, are a family of immune system receptors. TLRs 7, 8, and 9 are present in various immune system cells and recognize specific patterns of DNA or RNA. TLR9 is a receptor that specifically recognizes bacterial DNA or compounds that mimic bacterial DNA. TLR7 and TLR8 are receptors that recognize viral RNA and compounds that mimic viral RNA. Following recognition of DNA and RNA, TLRs 7, 8, and 9 each initiate a different cascade of immune responses.
Idera’s Approach to TLR-Targeted Drug Candidates
While certain DNA and RNA patterns are recognized by TLRs 7, 8, and 9, Idera’s experience in nucleic acid chemistry has enabled us to create novel DNA and RNA compounds. These novel DNA and RNA compounds contain chemical modifications and unique structural components. Studies of these novel compounds in various preclinical models have shown that the immune responses mediated through TLRs 7, 8, and 9 can be modulated in ways potentially appropriate for various applications.
Using this approach, Idera has identified IMO-2055 and IMO-2125 as lead candidates, and continues to create additional novel compounds to support additional internal programs and for external collaborations.