Structured around developing novel nanotherapeutics for cancer, Athna Biotech's research into sodium chloride nanoparticles (SCNPs) addresses an underserved niche: early-stage bladder cancer (aka non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer) which the firm notes accounts for 79% of new cases. The SCNPs developed by Athna Biotech personnel accurately targets cancer cells, causing them to disintegrate and release tumor antigens as well as damage-associated molecular pattern molecules. These molecules help recruit dendritic cells, which leads to antigen-specific immunity. Further, princopals of the firm argue, because SCNPs are derived from a benign electrolyte, the side effects are minimal. Management argue that Athnas development addresses a gap in the market that BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin) seems unable to fill. BCG is currently the most common intravesical immunotherapy for treating early-stage bladder cancer: used to help keep the cancer from growing and to help keep it from coming back.
