A peptide with a dual mechanism of action – it dissolves the bacterial membrane and activates the immune system – could be an effective weapon against microorganisms that have evolved ways to evade antibiotics, as superbugs do. Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) have designed stable synthetic peptides that activate mast cell receptors, which are cells involved in the innate and adaptive immune response. This dual approach eliminates bacteria and recruits neutrophils to finish the job.
Facing erosion of its mighty Eylea (aflibercept) franchise and near-term loss of exclusivity with Dupixent (dupilumab), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. took a blow as one of two phase III trials with IL-33-blocking monoclonal antibody itepekimab failed in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Tarrytown, N.Y.-based firm’s shares (NASDAQ:REGN) closed May 30 at $490.28, down $115.11, or 19%. Partner Sanofi SA, of Paris, saw its stock (NASDAQ:SNY) dip somewhat, too, and ended at $49.37, down $2.98. Cantor analyst Carter Gould opined that the latest news “all but [ruled] out a path forward short of a new study” with the compound.
Nibec Co. Ltd. announced May 28 the signing of a potential $435 million license deal for NP-201, its phase II-ready peptide-based pulmonary fibrosis therapy candidate, with an undisclosed U.S.-based biotech company.
After reporting in April that its gastrointestinal reprogramming product (Garp) failed to meet the primary efficacy endpoint in a phase II trial in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Anatara Lifesciences Ltd. conducted a further analysis that shows a positive trend toward efficacy.
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER) and University of Florida have identified atrial natriuretic peptide B (NPR2; guanylate cyclase B) receptor positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) reported to be useful for the treatment of fibrosis.
Activation of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor may be therapeutically useful against acute lung injury by suppressing expression of pro-inflammatory genes.
Arcus Biosciences Inc. has identified mast/stem cell growth factor receptor Kit (KIT; c-Kit; CD117) inhibitors reported to be useful for the treatment of cancer, allergy, autoimmune, inflammatory, cardiovascular, metabolic, dermatological and respiratory disorders, among others.
Researchers at the China Pharmaceutical University have developed a series of highly active receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) inhibitors with potent anti-inflammatory activity. RIPK1 is a key regulator of necroptosis, a form of programmed cell death associated with various inflammatory diseases.
The promise of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to heal heart disease could be around the corner thanks to a new delivery method tested by regenerative medicine company Cynata Therapeutics Ltd.
Kymera Therapeutics Inc. has announced a new oral IRF5 degrader program with potential to treat immuno-inflammatory diseases, such as lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
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