About
TNIK Therapeutics targets cancer stem cell diseases by developing small molecule inhibitors of TNIK, the most downstream transcription regulator of the Wnt pathway, which is a major force driving colorectal carcinogenesis when over-activated. Targeting TNIK regulates the beta catenin-TCF4 transcription complex responsible for the activation of genes important for stemness and proliferation. Moreover, it is a specific activator of the beta-catenin-TCF4 complex in contrast with other transcription regulators that have a pleiotropic effect, suggesting a reduced chance for off-target effects. TNIK Therapeutics obtained an exclusive license from Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology and Yonsei University Health System in Korea for the development of small molecule inhibitors to TNIK that could help patients with metastatic colon cancer. The company is a portfolio company of FuturX, an Israeli incubator, in partnership with Johnson & Johnson Innovation, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, and OrbiMed Israel Partners.