Vaxcell Bio, a specialized company dedicated to developing cancer immunotherapy for pets, under the leadership of CEO Je-Jung Lee, made a significant announcement on October 23rd. The company disclosed its application for product approval with the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency for 'Vaxleukin-15', a groundbreaking immune cancer drug designed exclusively for companion animals.

The company affirmed that Vaxleukin-15 demonstrated the ability to activate and boost the populations of NK cells and T cells, known for their cancer-fighting properties, based on the findings from preclinical trials involving normal companion animals. Furthermore, they clarified that the administration of Vaxleukin-15 resulted in a noticeable decrease in tumor biomarker concentrations, as indicated by TK1 and VEGF measurements. Importantly, the treatment exhibited a remarkable absence of side effects, with no hematological or biochemical irregularities or electrolyte imbalances reported.

Currently, the majority of pet cancer treatments available worldwide were initially developed for human use, raising concerns about potential side effects in pets. However, Vaxleukin-15 stands out as a pet-specific cancer treatment developed based on the genetic characteristics of companion animals, rather than relying on the human genome, according to the company's explanation.

Vaxcell Bio conducted comprehensive clinical trials involving a total of 120 companion dogs, with 60 subjects each for mammary tumors and lymphomas, across 42 animal hospitals nationwide. This extensive research led to the completion of clinical trials for mammary tumors, a prevalent condition in companion dogs, and a subsequent application for product approval. The company plans to seek an expanded product approval once the lymphoma clinical trials are finalized.

CEO Je-Jung Lee emphasized, "The incidence of cancer in companion animals surpasses that in humans. Many pets suffering from cancer endure their pain silently as they are unable to communicate it. Presently, the cancer treatments employed for pets are adaptations of human therapies, which limit their effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. In contrast, Vaxleukin-15 is a cancer treatment tailored to the genetic composition of companion animals, demonstrating remarkable efficacy with minimal side effects when used alongside standard cancer treatments for various cancer types."

Additionally, Vaxcell Bio has revealed its intention to submit an abstract containing preclinical data for Vaxleukin-15 to the Korean Veterinary Medical Association by the end of October. The company will officially present the results at the 2023 Korean Veterinary Medical Association conference, scheduled for the year-end. In anticipation of Vaxleukin-15's approval, the company has established the "Companion Animal Healthcare Division" and is making preparations to enter the companion animal medical market. Their plan is to distribute Vaxleukin-15 through animal hospitals nationwide once it secures product approval next year.