San Diego, December 11, 2025
CytoAgents, a San Diego biotechnology firm, is set to present research on CTO1681, an oral immune modulator designed to enhance CAR T-Cell Therapy for lymphoma patients. The findings reveal that CTO1681 can mitigate Cytokine Release Syndrome without compromising anti-tumor efficacy. The presentation will take place at the ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress in London, highlighting the company’s commitment to advance safer cancer treatments while addressing pressing healthcare challenges.
San Diego Innovator CytoAgents to Present Game-Changing Findings
Company Addresses Key Challenges in CAR T-Cell Therapy for Lymphoma
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – CytoAgents, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company, is poised to share groundbreaking research on their novel oral immune modulator, CTO1681, at the upcoming European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Immuno-Oncology Congress 2025. Taking place from December 10-12, 2025, in London, this event will bring together leaders in oncology to discuss advancements aimed at improving cancer treatment methodologies.
With an eye on supporting innovation within the San Diego business ecosystem, CytoAgents is actively working to solve significant issues tied to CAR T-Cell Therapy. While CAR T-Cell Therapy has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in killing cancer cells, it can also lead to severe side effects caused by a hyperactive immune response termed Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS). By introducing CTO1681, which effectively reduces inflammatory cytokines while preserving the anti-tumor activity of CAR T-Cells, CytoAgents is charting a course for safer treatment alternatives that could revolutionize patient access to these life-saving therapies.
Key Findings from Non-Clinical Studies
At the ESMO conference, participants can expect to see compelling data detailing how CTO1681 does not interfere with the anti-tumor efficacy of CAR T-Cells. The findings emerge from two pivotal non-clinical studies showcasing in vitro and in vivo investigations. The results indicate that CTO1681 significantly attenuates the key cytokines responsible for CRS, suggesting that patients might experience fewer toxicities without sacrificing treatment effectiveness.
Clinical Trial Developments
Currently, CytoAgents is enrolling participants in a Phase 1b/2a clinical trial, targeting lymphoma patients undergoing CAR T-Cell Therapy and who are at risk for inflammatory-driven toxicities. This dedicated effort demonstrates the company’s commitment to advancing medical solutions that prioritize safety while maintaining treatment efficacy, a core principle of entrepreneurial innovation in biomedicine.
Presentation Details at ESMO 2025
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore two significant posters presented by Michael Howell, PhD, Founder and President of Mountaineer Biosciences based in San Diego:
- Title: CTO1681 Does Not Interfere with CAR T-Cell Anti-Tumor Efficacy In Vivo
- Session Date and Time: Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 5:15 PM – 6:30 PM GMT
- Location: Queen Elizabeth II Centre – Churchill Room
- Final Poster Number (FPN): 109P
- Title: CTO1681 Attenuates CRS-Driving Cytokines Without Compromising CAR T-Cell-Mediated Tumor Killing In Vitro
- Session Date and Time: Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 5:15 PM – 6:30 PM GMT
- Location: Queen Elizabeth II Centre – Churchill Room
- Final Poster Number (FPN): 113P
Future Prospects for CTO1681
Beyond its immediate application for CAR T-Cell Therapy in oncology, CytoAgents envisions a future where CTO1681 could address various inflammatory conditions, including asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and atopic dermatitis. This prospective diversification underscores the adaptability of San Diego’s life sciences sector and its potential to lead in multiple therapeutic areas as small businesses innovate and thrive.
Conclusion
The developments surrounding CTO1681 by CytoAgents not only highlight the power of local innovation but also how the right regulatory environment fosters breakthroughs in healthcare. As the company prepares for its presentation at the esteemed ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress, the San Diego community stands to benefit through enhanced job creation and healthcare advancement. Supporting such pioneering enterprises ensures ongoing economic growth and revitalization within the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is CTO1681?
CTO1681 is an oral immune modulator developed by CytoAgents, Inc. It is designed to reduce inflammation in the tumor microenvironment and mitigate toxicities associated with CAR T-Cell Therapy in lymphoma patients.
What are the key findings from the non-clinical studies presented at ESMO?
The studies demonstrate that CTO1681 effectively attenuates key cytokines responsible for Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) without compromising CAR T-Cell-mediated tumor killing, both in vitro and in vivo. This suggests that CTO1681 could enable safer CAR T-Cell Therapy administration and broaden patient access without compromising anti-tumor efficacy.
What is the current status of the clinical trial for CTO1681?
CytoAgents is currently enrolling patients in a Phase 1b/2a clinical trial evaluating CTO1681 in lymphoma patients receiving CAR T-Cell Therapy at risk for inflammatory-driven toxicities. The trial aims to assess the safety and efficacy of CTO1681 in this patient population.
When and where will the poster presentations take place?
The poster presentations will take place on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 5:15 PM to 6:30 PM GMT at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre – Churchill Room in London, United Kingdom, during the ESMO Immuno-Oncology Congress 2025.
What are the future plans for CTO1681?
CytoAgents plans to expand the use of CTO1681 into additional therapeutic categories, including asthma, COPD, and atopic dermatitis, beyond its current application in oncology patients receiving CAR T-Cell Therapy.
Key Features of CTO1681
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mechanism of Action | Oral immune modulator targeting inflammation in the tumor microenvironment to mitigate CAR T-Cell Therapy-induced toxicities. |
| Clinical Trial Status | Phase 1b/2a trial enrolling lymphoma patients receiving CAR T-Cell Therapy at risk for inflammatory-driven toxicities. |
| Non-Clinical Study Findings | Attenuates key cytokines responsible for Cytokine Release Syndrome without compromising CAR T-Cell-mediated tumor killing in vitro and in vivo. |
| Future Applications | Plans to expand into therapeutic categories including asthma, COPD, and atopic dermatitis. |
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