Quoin Pharmaceuticals has announced positive interim data from its ongoing open-label clinical study of QRX003 for Netherton Syndrome, revealing significant improvements in the first subject after 12 weeks of treatment. The study, which involves twice-daily administration of QRX003, showed an 83% reduction in symptoms, marking a potential breakthrough in treating this rare genetic condition. The results highlight the potential of QRX003 to address the unmet medical needs of Netherton Syndrome patients, who currently have no approved therapeutic options.
Clinical Trial Results
The interim data demonstrated improvements across all measured clinical endpoints:
- M-IASI (Modified Ichthyosis Area of Severity Index): Reduced from 18 to 3, indicating a significant decrease in disease severity.
- WINRS (Worst Itch Numeric Rating Scale): Decreased from 7 to 2, showing marked improvement in itch severity.
- IGA (Investigator's Global Assessment): Improved from 'Moderate' to 'Almost Clear', reflecting a substantial enhancement in overall skin condition.
Photographic evidence of the subject's skin improvements is available on Quoin's website, further illustrating the efficacy of QRX003. No safety concerns were identified during the study, and patient satisfaction scores were highly positive, improving further after 12 weeks.
Expert Commentary
Dr. Michael Myers, CEO of Quoin Pharmaceuticals, expressed enthusiasm about the results, stating, "We are very excited to announce continued positive results from our ongoing Netherton Syndrome clinical studies... The marked improvement demonstrated across all measured endpoints is highly encouraging." He also highlighted the absence of safety issues and the potential of QRX003 to become the first approved treatment for Netherton Syndrome.
Next Steps
Quoin is preparing for a 'whole body' clinical study at Northwestern University, having already obtained FDA clearance. Data from this study will be a key component of the data package supporting a New Drug Application (NDA) for QRX003. The company anticipates providing further updates throughout 2025.
About Netherton Syndrome
Netherton Syndrome is a rare hereditary skin disorder caused by a mutation in the SPINK5 gene, leading to severe skin barrier defects, recurring infections, and a predisposition to allergies, asthma, and eczema. Patients often suffer from severe dehydration, chronic skin inflammation, and stunted growth. Currently, there is no cure, and no approved therapeutic treatments are available.
About QRX003
QRX003 is a topical lotion formulated with a proprietary delivery technology containing a broad-spectrum serine protease inhibitor. Its mechanism of action is intended to perform the function of LEKTI, a protein whose absence in Netherton patients leads to excessive skin shedding and a compromised skin barrier. QRX003 is designed to promote a more normalized skin-shedding process and the formation of a stronger, more effective skin barrier.
