Edinburgh's Kynos Therapeutics reveals significant findings from trial of leading drug candidate
The company has unveiled significant findings from its first-in-human phase 1 trial of KNS366, its leading drug candidate.
The trial focused on assessing the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of single and multiple doses of KNS366 in healthy adult participants. KMO, an enzyme pivotal in the kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism, plays a crucial role in converting kynurenine into 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK). By inhibiting KMO activity, KNS366 aims to mitigate elevated 3-HK levels, thereby averting excessive tissue damage and immune system dysregulation during inflammation.
According to the results, all doses of KNS366 were deemed safe and exhibited excellent tolerability. Moreover, pharmacodynamic measures showcased KNS366's potency as a KMO enzyme inhibitor, with a notable reduction in the enzyme product 3-HK.
Dr. Damian Mole, is the founder and chief scientific officer (CSO) of Kynos Therapeutics, told OSP about the significance of the phase 1 data.
He said: “The headline data from this phase I study have demonstrated KNS366 is safe and well tolerated at exposures that resulted in a high level of KMO enzyme inhibition. Information from the study, including pharmacodynamic measures, enables the selection of doses for future clinical studies in patients.”
Kynos says this phase 1 trial represents a crucial step forward in advancing KNS366 as a potential therapeutic option for inflammatory disorders. With promising safety and efficacy profiles, KNS366 holds promise for future clinical studies aimed at addressing unmet medical needs in patients with acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.
Jonathan Savidge, CEO of Kynos Therapeutics, is optimistic about the trial's outcomes:
He said: “The successful completion of this Phase I study is a significant milestone for Kynos and the results provide an excellent basis for further development of KNS366. The full analysis of the wealth of data from the study will generate invaluable information on this first-in-class mechanism to enable the optimization of the further clinical development pathway. We appreciate the funding contribution from Innovate UK to conduct this important clinical trial.”
Manifesting across various bodily systems, chronic inflammatory diseases encompass afflictions affecting the digestive system, joints, skin, respiratory tract, and internal organs. While these conditions lack a definitive cure, treatment strategies typically involve the administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and lifestyle interventions. Although incurable, effective management of symptoms and complications through tailored treatment regimens remains pivotal in enhancing the quality of life for individuals grappling with chronic inflammatory diseases.
Chronic inflammatory diseases encompass a diverse array of conditions characterized by persistent inflammation within the body.
These diseases can extend their reach beyond localized inflammation to affect vital organs, including segments of the digestive tract, the cardiovascular system, and the respiratory system. Certain inflammatory disorders, such as specific forms of arthritis, may manifest with additional complications, including vision impairment.
