Uveal melanoma (UV), a rare but deadly cancer of the eye that often rapidly progresses to the liver is characterized by the expression of the tumor specific receptors IL-13RA2, which are not detected in normal cells, and which express mainly IL-13RA1.

The breakthrough solution will be based on the use of targeted therapy against IL-13RA2 by genetically modified IL-13 conjugated to a cytotoxic load ("Warhead"). Recombinant cytokines preferentially bound to tumor-specific receptors will allow for highly specific targeting of UV cells and their further elimination due to chemically induced intracellular cytotoxic effects. What's more, the planned method of administering the drug directly to the tumor tissue will be an advantage over standard intravenous administration, thanks to which patients may avoid the side effects associated with standard chemotherapy. The Project's result should allow patients access to innovative molecular targeted therapies as an alternative to conventional treatment.