PROVIREX and LIV receive 1.7 million euros in funding for gene therapy platform

Hamburg-based PROVIREX Genome Editing Therapies GmbH and the Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV) have received funding of 1.7 million euros as part of the PROFI Transfer Plus program of IFB Hamburg and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The aim of the joint project TheraImmun is to develop a modular gene therapy platform for the targeted modification of immune cells, with a first clinical application in the field of HTLV-1.

Underestimated risk with global spread

Human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a globally occurring retrovirus that integrates its genetic material into human immune cells in a similar way to HIV. It can cause serious diseases such as T-cell leukemia or neurological syndromes. An approved therapy does not yet exist.

HTLV-1 is an underestimated health risk. This project enables us to translate scientific findings directly into therapeutic solutions.

Dr. Dr. Ulrike Lange, Head of the LIV working group Genomics of Retroviral Diseases

TheraImmun

The TheraImmun project combines several technological components:

• The designer recombinase RecHTLV, developed and patented by PROVIREX, specifically cuts the viral genome from the infected immune cells.
• The recombinase is administered via AAV vectors whose surfaces are provided with VHH antibody fragments - for targeted cell addressing.
• Modern 3D organoids serve as a preclinical model, enabling realistic research without animal testing.

This collaboration combines our platform technology with excellent virological research. Together we are laying the foundation for a precise gene therapy against HTLV-1.

Dr. Niklas Beschorner, Head of Research at PROVIREX

The startup PROVIREX was launched in October 2019 and received initial seed funding in 2020. Since July 2022, both BIOVENTURE Consulting GmbH and the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg (represented by IFB) have been among the investors and shareholders.

Strengthening Hamburg as a life science location

A technically ambitious lighthouse project that we support with full conviction - and which further strengthens Hamburg as a life science location.

Dr. Carsten Lohmann, Head of Innovation Promotion at IFB Hamburg

TheraImmun is part of the PROFI Transfer Plus funding line, which supports strategic research partnerships. The focus is on innovative projects with high medical relevance and economic transfer potential.