Olema Oncology, a biopharmaceutical company specializing in targeted therapies for breast cancer, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the Investigational New Drug (IND) application for OP-3136, a novel and selective KAT6 inhibitor. This clearance paves the way for a Phase 1 clinical trial, slated to begin in early 2025, to evaluate OP-3136's safety and potential efficacy in patients with breast cancer and other cancers where KAT6 is dysregulated.
OP-3136: Targeting KAT6 in Cancer
OP-3136 is a small molecule designed to potently and selectively inhibit KAT6 (Lysine Acetyltransferase 6), a validated epigenetic target. KAT6 plays a crucial role in gene regulation, and its dysregulation has been implicated in the development and progression of various cancers, including breast cancer. By inhibiting KAT6, OP-3136 aims to restore normal gene expression patterns and inhibit cancer cell growth.
Preclinical Evidence and Investigator Interest
According to David C. Myles, Ph.D., Chief Discovery and Non-Clinical Development Officer of Olema Oncology, preclinical studies have demonstrated compelling activity of OP-3136, both as a single agent and in combination with palazestrant, Olema's lead product candidate. Palazestrant (OP-1250) is an orally available complete estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist (CERAN) and a selective ER degrader (SERD) currently in Phase 3 clinical trials. The promising preclinical data has generated significant interest from investigators, fueling enthusiasm for the upcoming Phase 1 trial.
Phase 1 Trial Design and Objectives
The Phase 1 clinical trial will be a first-in-human study designed to assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of OP-3136. The trial will also explore preliminary efficacy signals in a select patient population with breast and other cancers characterized by KAT6 dysregulation. Details regarding the trial design, including specific inclusion/exclusion criteria and dosing regimens, will be disclosed closer to the trial's initiation in early 2025.
Olema Oncology's Broader Pipeline
Beyond OP-3136, Olema Oncology is actively advancing palazestrant (OP-1250), a complete estrogen receptor antagonist (CERAN) and selective ER degrader (SERD), in a Phase 3 clinical trial (OPERA-01) for breast cancer. The company's strategy focuses on developing targeted therapies that address endocrine-driven cancers and mechanisms of acquired resistance. The advancement of OP-3136 into clinical development diversifies Olema's pipeline and reinforces its commitment to transforming the standard of care for patients with breast cancer and other cancers.
