Defining the Next Generation of Cancer Treatment

Cancer has historically been treated with chemotherapy and radiation, leading to systemic toxicity and destroying healthy tissue alongside cancerous cells. Patients endure grueling treatments, lose quality of life and oftentimes relapse. Our leading research focuses on disabling the survival mechanism of cancer cells through CRISPR-directed gene editing. By targeting NRF2-a gene that drives survival and response to stress, we destabilize the mechanism of tumor cell survival. 

In healthy cells, NRF2 provides protection. But in many tumors, NRF2 becomes overactive, and cancer cells become addicted to it for survival. Healthy cells don't share this addiction, which makes NRF2 an ideal target: Disabling it harms tumors while leaving healthy tissue alone. We're conducting preclinical research in our lead indication, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), the seventh leading cause of cancer in the U.S.

The Gene Editing Institute is the scientific engine for Corrixr Therapeutics. Together, we're advancing this therapy toward clinical trials. Once approved, it will be the first of its kind. Preliminary data support extending this approach to lung cancer and other tumor types.