Additional Programs

ChemoCentryx is conducting preclinical evaluation of a series of anticancer compounds that target the CXCR7 chemokine receptor. ChemoCentryx's compounds are designed to selectively target this receptor, which is associated with tumor growth, with the aim of stopping cancer progression without affecting healthy cells. In addition, we have other compounds targeting novel chemokine receptors for indications in liver disease and skin inflammation.

CXCR7 Program in Cancer

ChemoCentryx is developing orally-administered cancer therapies targeting CXCR7, a novel chemokine receptor that combines an anti-angiogenic approach to stopping the blood supply to cancerous cells with anti-tumor activity via direct attack of tumor cells.

We have demonstrated that CXCR7 expression can directly control tumor growth in vivo. Our data show that CXCR7 regulates several important biological processes including cell survival and tumor development in in vivo models. We also established that CXCR7 promotes growth of tumors formed from breast and lung cancer cells. Tissue staining in primary human breast and lung tumor cells revealed that this receptor is highly expressed on a majority of tumor-associated blood vessels and malignant cells but not on the normal vasculature of cells surrounding those two types of tumors.

We have developed highly potent and selective small molecule compounds for CXCR7. We are in preclinical development and anticipate initiation of clinical trials in the near future. In contrast to standard chemotherapies, which can be highly toxic, our compounds are designed to selectively target CXCR7 in an effort to halt cancer progression while minimizing detrimental effects, such as generalized immunosuppression or cytotoxicity.

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