Bispecific T-cell Engager for Immune Reset in Systemic Sclerosis

Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease with no known cure. In this condition, B immune cells mistakenly produce antibodies that target the body’s own nuclear and connective tissue components. This immune misfire leads to too much collagen being produced, causing the skin to become hard and thickened. In its systemic form, called systemic sclerosis, the disease can spread to internal organs, leading to serious and sometimes life-threatening complications. Bispecific T cell engagers (BiTEs) are a promising type of immunotherapy that have shown success in cancer treatment by directing T cells to eliminate harmful B cells. Because B cells play a key role in systemic sclerosis, this same approach could offer a powerful new treatment option. In this project, Luminary Therapeutics will repurpose its clinically validated, high-affinity B cell binder to develop a B cell–targeting BiTE. The goal is to create an affordable, off-the-shelf therapy with the potential to meaningfully improve outcomes for people living with systemic sclerosis.