Ventus Therapeutics has announced the successful completion of its Phase 1 clinical trial for VENT-03, a first-in-class, orally administered inhibitor of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS). The trial results pave the way for a Phase 2 study in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), planned for 2025.
The Phase 1 trial, which enrolled 72 healthy adult volunteers, assessed the pharmacokinetics, target engagement, safety, and tolerability of VENT-03. The data indicated that VENT-03 was safe and well-tolerated across all tested dose levels, with all treatment-related adverse events being mild and easily managed. Furthermore, VENT-03 exhibited a favorable pharmacokinetic profile, supporting a once-daily dosing regimen. The study also demonstrated that VENT-03 achieved plasma concentrations sufficient for complete target inhibition and showed strong pharmacodynamic effects.
cGAS is a key receptor involved in the innate immune response and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of lupus and a range of other autoimmune diseases. By inhibiting cGAS, VENT-03 aims to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in affected individuals. Currently, treatment options for lupus primarily focus on managing symptoms and suppressing the immune system with broad-acting immunosuppressants, which can have significant side effects. VENT-03 represents a more targeted approach with the potential to offer improved efficacy and a better safety profile.
The planned Phase 2 trial will further evaluate the safety and efficacy of VENT-03 in patients with SLE. This study will assess clinical endpoints such as disease activity scores, reduction in flare-ups, and improvement in patient-reported outcomes. The results of this trial will be crucial in determining the potential of VENT-03 as a novel therapeutic option for lupus and other autoimmune conditions.
“The successful completion of this Phase 1 trial is a significant milestone for Ventus Therapeutics and for the development of new treatments for lupus,” said [Name and Title of Ventus Spokesperson, if available]. “We are excited to advance VENT-03 into Phase 2 and further investigate its potential to improve the lives of patients with SLE.”
