Stockhead: ASX biotechs join global race for cell therapy breakthroughs
Arovella Therapeutics is the only ASX-listed biotech delving into CAR Invariant Natural Killer T-cells (iNKT) therapies, and one of only a few globally.
CEO Dr Michael Baker told Stockhead iNKT cells were distinct from the more familiar natural killer, or NK cells, which along with T-cells had limitations.
T-cells can’t be used off-the-shelf unless they are genetically engineered. While NK cells can quickly eliminate abnormal cells such as tumour cells, iNKT cells go further. Not only do they kill like T and NK cells, but they also trigger a longer-lasting response by activating other key parts of the immune system.