ImmuneOnco Biopharmaceuticals (Shanghai) Inc. (HKG: 1541), a China-based biopharmaceutical company, has announced receiving approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) to conduct a Phase II study for its dual-target macromolecular drug, amulirafusp alfa (IMM0306), in lupus nephritis (LN).
Dual-Targeting Therapy with IMM0306
IMM0306 is a bispecific antibody (BsAb) that targets cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47) and CD20, marking the first of its kind to enter clinical evaluation globally. This innovative drug enhances antibody-dependent cell phagocytosis (ADCP) and antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC), offering a dual-targeting approach to cancer treatment. IMM0306 can simultaneously bind to CD47 and CD20 expressed on malignant B cells, with a higher affinity for CD20 compared to CD47, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy.
Potential Impact on Lupus Nephritis Treatment
The approval of the Phase II study for IMM0306 signifies a significant step forward in the development of novel therapies for lupus nephritis. By targeting both CD47 and CD20, IMM0306 has the potential to revolutionize treatment options for patients suffering from this autoimmune disease, which affects the kidneys and can lead to severe complications if left untreated.-Fineline Info & Tech