Bojing Jiang, MS, MPhil
Dual TLR7/9 Activation Using Multivalent Peptide–Oligonucleotide Complex
Abstract
Most cancer patients don’t respond to immunotherapies because their tumors suppress immune responses. We will design peptide carriers that deliver immune-activating RNA and DNA drugs directly to tumors. Based on FDA-approved glatiramer acetate, our KEYA peptides form fibers or spheres that protect drugs and deliver them to immune cells. Inside cells, enzymes cut the peptides to release drugs where immune receptors reside. Some designs provide dual activation by mimicking danger signals. We will create five peptide variants with different charge patterns affecting structure and function. Initial testing shows one peptide forms stable spheres with >95% safety in human/mouse cells. We will test which peptide best activates protective interferon over harmful inflammation in immune cells, then evaluate tumor shrinkage in mice. By converting “cold” tumors that evade immunity into “hot” tumors that trigger attacks, this approach could help more cancer patients respond to treatment.
Read a Q&A with Bojing
Support from the PhRMA Foundation empowers me to develop precise and safe peptide-based delivery platforms that activate tumor immunity, reduce systemic toxicity, and translate fundamental engineering innovations into clinically impactful cancer immunotherapies.
