Vivtex Corporation and Equillium, Inc. have announced a research and licensing agreement focused on developing an optimized oral version of Equillium’s EQ302, a bispecific peptide inhibitor of IL-15 and IL-21. This collaboration aims to address gastrointestinal (GI) inflammation through Vivtex's GI-ORIS™ technology, potentially revolutionizing treatment options for patients with GI disorders.
Collaboration Details
The partnership will leverage Vivtex’s AI-enabled GI-ORIS™ screening and formulation platform to improve the oral bioavailability of EQ302. Equillium retains the option to license the technology, with Vivtex potentially receiving royalties and other payments. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
EQ302: Targeting GI Disorders
EQ302 inhibits IL-15 and IL-21, two cytokines implicated in the pathophysiology of various GI disorders, including Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Celiac Disease, and Eosinophilic Esophagitis. An oral formulation of EQ302 promises a strong anti-inflammatory effect with improved patient convenience and compliance compared to current biologic therapies.
Stephen Connelly, Chief Scientific Officer at Equillium, stated, "This partnership underscores our confidence in Vivtex’s ability to model complex gastrointestinal environments and provide critical insights to advance the development of EQ302 for oral delivery."
Clinical Development and Future Plans
Equillium is targeting the initiation of a first-in-human Phase 1 trial in the second half of 2025 to investigate the oral formulation of EQ302. This trial will mark a significant step toward providing a more accessible treatment option for patients suffering from GI disorders.
Vivtex's Role in Oral Biologics
Vivtex is emerging as a leader in oral biologics delivery, with a growing number of biotech and pharma collaborations. The company's technology aims to improve the oral bioavailability of peptides, offering renewed hope for oral therapeutics.
Maureen Deehan, CEO of Vivtex, commented, "This collaboration with Equillium expands our portfolio of projects and speaks to the strength and potential of our GI-ORIS™ technology. Together, we are redefining what is possible with orally available peptides and are confident that this partnership will accelerate efforts to offer more effective, accessible, and less burdensome treatment options to patients."
