Verona Pharma's ensifentrine, a novel dual inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 3 and 4, has demonstrated promising results in improving lung function and reducing symptoms in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Data from a Phase 2b clinical trial, published in Respiratory Research, highlight the potential of ensifentrine as a maintenance treatment for COPD.
The study, a 4-week trial involving 400 patients, met its primary endpoint by showing clinically and statistically significant improvements in lung function across all doses of ensifentrine. Furthermore, the trial achieved clinically relevant secondary endpoints, including significant progressive improvements in COPD symptoms.
Key Findings from the Phase 2b Trial
The published paper, titled "A dose-ranging study of the inhaled dual phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 inhibitor ensifentrine in COPD," details the outcomes of the trial. According to Dave Singh, M.D., Professor of Clinical Pharmacology and Respiratory Medicine at the University of Manchester and Lead Investigator in the study, the data, combined with ensifentrine’s unique mechanism of action, support its potential as a novel therapy for COPD. He particularly noted the improvements in patients’ symptoms, including breathlessness.
Ensifentrine's Mechanism of Action
Ensifentrine (RPL554) is a first-in-class, inhaled, dual inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 enzymes. It functions as both an anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator agent within a single compound. Prior Phase 2 clinical studies have demonstrated significant and clinically meaningful improvements in both lung function and COPD symptoms, including breathlessness, in patients with moderate to severe COPD.
Implications for COPD Treatment
COPD is a progressive and life-threatening respiratory disease affecting millions worldwide. The World Health Organization estimates that it will become the third leading cause of death globally by 2030. In the United States, COPD is a significant economic burden, with total annual medical costs projected to reach $49 billion in 2020. A substantial number of COPD patients on existing dual/triple inhaled therapies continue to experience uncontrolled symptoms, highlighting the urgent need for more effective treatments.
David Zaccardelli, Pharm. D., President and CEO of Verona Pharma, stated that the data from the two Phase 2b studies provide further evidence of ensifentrine’s therapeutic potential. The company anticipates an End-of-Phase 2 meeting with the FDA in the second quarter of 2020 to discuss the design of its Phase 3 program.
