Core Insights - Calidi Biotherapeutics Inc. announced promising preclinical results for its systemic RTNova platform, which successfully delivers transient gene therapy payloads to targeted tumors and has shown efficacy in killing over 60 different tumor cell lines [1][2] Group 1: RTNova Platform - The RTNova platform addresses challenges in treating advanced-stage metastatic cancers, particularly when intratumoral administration is not feasible, by using a modified vaccinia virus strain that targets distant tumors while being protected in the bloodstream [2][3] - The platform's mechanism includes direct tumor killing and robust activation of antitumor immune responses, potentially revolutionizing cancer treatment approaches [4] Group 2: Immunological Impact - New data revealed that a single dose of a tumor-selective triple knockout (3KO) RT virus with a specific immunotherapeutic payload significantly altered the tumor microenvironment, increasing leukocyte infiltration to 80% for 3KO RT and 92% for 3KO RT with the payload, compared to 46% for the untreated group [3] - These changes in immune composition led to the complete eradication of certain tumors in preclinical models, confirming the production of immunomodulated payloads specifically at tumor sites [3] Group 3: Future Potential - The CEO of Calidi expressed excitement about the breakthrough, indicating that the systemic platform can also act as a viral vector to express therapeutic genes in target tumors, which may lead to multiple asset developments for various indications and potential partnership opportunities [4] - Calidi Biotherapeutics is focused on utilizing potent allogeneic stem cells to carry oncolytic viruses for multiple oncology indications, including high-grade gliomas and solid tumors, enhancing efficacy and patient safety [5]
Calidi Biotherapeutics Announces Demonstrated Ability To Deliver Transient Gene Therapy (Payload) To Tumors Using Systemic Platform