Kinaset Therapeutics has achieved a significant milestone in respiratory medicine with the FDA's clearance of its investigational new drug (IND) application for frevecitinib (KN-002), a novel inhaled pan-JAK inhibitor targeting patients with inadequately controlled asthma.
The drug represents a pioneering approach in asthma treatment, specifically designed for patients who continue to experience symptoms despite using standard maintenance therapies, including medium-to-high dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting beta-agonists (LABA).
Innovative Mechanism and Delivery Approach
Frevecitinib distinguishes itself as a first-in-class inhaled pan-JAK inhibitor, targeting JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, and TYK2. The drug's unique formulation allows delivery through a single-capsule dry powder inhaler, achieving therapeutic lung concentrations while minimizing systemic exposure – a crucial factor in optimizing the safety profile.
Promising Phase 1b Results
The Phase 1b clinical studies have yielded encouraging results, demonstrating clinically meaningful reductions in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), a key biomarker of airway inflammation. Notably, the drug showed efficacy across a broad patient spectrum, including those with blood eosinophil counts below 300 cells/mm³ and even 150 cells/mm³ – populations that typically show limited response to existing therapies.
"The unique mechanism of our inhaled pan-JAK inhibitor, combined with its targeted lung delivery and minimal systemic exposure, positions frevecitinib as a potentially transformative therapy for the treatment of severe asthma," stated Christopher O'Brien, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer of Kinaset Therapeutics.
Addressing a Significant Unmet Need
The development of frevecitinib addresses a critical gap in asthma treatment. Despite current standard therapies, nearly 50% of asthma patients continue to experience persistent symptoms. This high proportion of inadequately controlled patients underscores the urgent need for innovative treatment approaches.
Future Development Plans
Following the successful IND clearance, Kinaset Therapeutics plans to initiate a Phase 2b dose-ranging trial in mid-2025. The study aims to determine the optimal dosing regimen for future pivotal clinical development. The Phase 1b results have already demonstrated dose-proportional pharmacokinetics with plasma levels remaining below pharmacologically active concentrations, with no significant systemic or local safety concerns reported.
The advancement of frevecitinib represents a potential breakthrough in asthma treatment, particularly for patients who have exhausted conventional therapeutic options. Its development continues to be closely watched by the respiratory medicine community as it progresses through clinical trials.
