The severe asthma therapeutics landscape is expanding rapidly, with over 50 therapies in active development by more than 40 pharmaceutical companies, according to a new report by DelveInsight. These efforts aim to address the persistent symptoms and frequent exacerbations that characterize severe asthma, a condition that significantly impairs patients' quality of life. The pipeline includes a variety of approaches, from biologics targeting IgE and cytokine modulators to small molecules with novel mechanisms of action.
Key Players and Emerging Therapies
Several major pharmaceutical companies are driving innovation in the severe asthma space. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) recently announced positive Phase III results for depemokimab, an anti-IL-5 receptor monoclonal antibody, in patients with type 2 inflammation characterized by elevated blood eosinophil counts. Sanofi is also advancing rilzabrutinib, a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, with Phase IIb data in moderate to severe asthma presented at the American Thoracic Society (ATS) International Conference. Kinaset Therapeutics is developing frevecitinib (KN-002), an oral TNF-alpha inhibitor, with presentations at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress highlighting its potential in moderate to severe asthma and COPD.
Other notable therapies in the pipeline include:
- CBP-201 (Suzhou Connect Biopharmaceuticals): An interleukin-4 receptor alpha subunit antagonist in Phase II development.
- BSI-045B (Biosion): A thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) inhibitor in Phase II development.
- CM326 (CSPC ZhongQi Pharmaceutical Technology): A TSLP inhibitor/modulator in Phase II development.
- GSK3511294 (GlaxoSmithKline): An interleukin-5 receptor antagonist in Phase III development.
Novel Targets and Mechanisms of Action
The severe asthma pipeline reflects a growing understanding of the complex inflammatory pathways involved in the disease. TSLP, a key upstream cytokine, is a popular target, with multiple therapies in development aimed at blocking its activity. Other approaches include inhibiting IL-5, IL-4, and TNF-alpha, as well as exploring novel mechanisms such as STAT6 transcription factor degradation.
Upstream Bio announced positive interim results from its Phase Ib study of UPB-101, a TSLPR inhibitor, in October 2023, demonstrating the potential of this approach. Aiolos Bio, another company with an asthma drug in clinical trials, raised $245 million in Series A funding, highlighting the strong investor interest in this area.
Addressing Unmet Needs in Severe Asthma
Despite the availability of inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting bronchodilators, and biologic therapies, many patients with severe asthma continue to experience uncontrolled symptoms and frequent exacerbations. The emerging therapies in the pipeline offer the potential to address these unmet needs by targeting different inflammatory pathways and providing more personalized treatment options.
The development of new drugs for severe asthma is crucial for improving the quality of life for patients and reducing the burden of this chronic respiratory condition. With a robust pipeline and ongoing clinical trials, the future looks promising for individuals living with severe asthma.
