Ablynx Announces A Novel Preclinical Development Candidate Targeting IL6R

Main Category: Immune System / Vaccines
Also Included In: Medical Devices / Diagnostics
Article Date: 30 Jun 2009 - 7:00 PDT

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Ablynx [Euronext Brussels: ABLX], a pioneer in the discovery and development of Nanobodies®, a novel class of antibody-derived therapeutic proteins, announced that it has advanced ALX-0061, a new Nanobody®-based therapeutic programme, into preclinical development for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

ALX-0061 is a selective, low molecular weight biologic, binding to the IL6 receptor (IL6R). It has a very high potency and demonstrated a favourable PD, PK and safety profile in preclinical testing compared with the benchmark molecule. ALX-0061 has no Fc-mediated effector function which may translate into an improved safety profile. It also avoids cross-linking IL6R due to its monovalent binding to the target.

The low molecular weight and desirable biophysical properties of this Nanobody® open up opportunities for alternative routes of administration and superior tissue penetration in the clinical setting. The Nanobody® can be manufactured at a relatively low cost in a microbial system.

"We are delighted to strengthen our product portfolio by advancing another novel Nanobody®, discovered using our proprietary Nanobody® platform, into preclinical development. It is well positioned to translate into a superior treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. There are already three Nanobodies® in clinical development, with our lead programme, ALX-0081, a novel anti-thrombotic, on track to start Phase II in the next few months", commented Dr. Edwin Moses, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Ablynx.

About ALX-0061 (IL6R)

ALX-0061 is a Nanobody® binding to the interleukin-6 receptor (IL6R). It has the potential to differentiate through its high potency, high stability and low molecule weight of only 26kD which should translate into superior tissue penetration, attractive PK/PD and superior safety and efficacy profile compared with a benchmark monoclonal antibody.

The involvement of the IL6 pathway in a variety of diseases indicates that multiple indications can be pursued with large market potential including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Crohn's disease, Castleman's disease, multiple myeloma and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Source
College Hill Life Sciences

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