Lund, Sweden-based Xinnate AB has received positive feedback from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that will accelerate the development pathway for its lead candidate TCP-25, a potential treatment for the rare skin condition Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB). Following a Type C meeting with the FDA's Division of Dermatology and Dentistry, the company's upcoming clinical trial has been upgraded to serve as a registrational study.
"We are grateful that we have FDA's support for the development program of the drug candidate TCP-25 and the upcoming clinical trial," said Helene Hartman, CEO of Xinnate. The FDA acknowledged the significant unmet medical need in the EB population and provided valuable input to the study design that would allow the trial to serve as the basis for registration upon successful completion.
The STEP Trial Design
The clinical trial, named the STEP trial, is designed as an international multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to assess the efficacy and safety of TCP-25 in patients with dystrophic and junctional EB. This pivotal study is scheduled to begin during 2025.
The upgrade to registrational status represents a significant milestone for Xinnate, potentially shortening the path to market for TCP-25 if the trial meets its endpoints.
TCP-25: A Novel Approach to EB Treatment
TCP-25 is an immunomodulatory peptide being developed for the treatment of EB, a rare and devastating genetic skin disorder characterized by extremely fragile skin that blisters and tears from minor friction or trauma. The condition can cause severe pain, disability, and in some cases, premature death.
What distinguishes TCP-25 from other investigational treatments is its dual-action mechanism. The peptide targets both inflammation and bacterial infection, two critical factors that complicate wound healing in EB patients. This approach aims to promote faster and more effective healing of the persistent wounds that characterize the condition.
Earlier this year, the FDA granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) for TCP-25 for the treatment of EB, highlighting the significant unmet need in this patient population and providing certain development incentives for Xinnate.
Clinical Development Progress
Xinnate has already completed a three-part Phase 1 study of TCP-25 gel, which included a group of patients with Epidermolysis Bullosa. The successful completion of this early-stage trial, combined with the recent FDA feedback, has paved the way for the company to advance directly to the Phase 2/3 STEP study.
The company's approach addresses the complex pathophysiology of EB by targeting the interplay between microbial presence and inflammatory responses that contribute to dysfunctional healing in these patients.
Addressing a Significant Unmet Need
Epidermolysis Bullosa affects approximately 500,000 people worldwide, with limited treatment options currently available. Most existing approaches focus on symptom management and wound care rather than addressing the underlying mechanisms that impair healing.
If successful, TCP-25 could represent a significant advancement in the treatment landscape for EB patients, who currently face a lifetime of painful blistering, wound complications, and intensive care requirements.
Xinnate, a member of SmiLe Venture Hub at Medicon Village in Lund, Sweden, is focused on developing novel therapies based on its proprietary peptide technology. Beyond EB, the company is exploring applications for its technology in other inflammatory skin conditions where dysfunctional healing presents a significant challenge.
