China-based Innovent Biologics Inc., (HKG: 1801) has announced the first patient dosing in a Phase II clinical study for its IBI311, a recombinant anti-insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) monoclonal antibody, in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO). IBI311 is an IGF-1R-targeting monoclonal antibody independently developed by Innovent, marking a significant step in the treatment of this condition.
Mechanism of Action
IBI311 works by blocking the binding of IGF-1 and IGF-2 to IGF-1R, thereby inhibiting the activation of the IGF-1R signaling pathway. This action reduces the expression of downstream inflammatory factors, inhibiting the adipocytosis of orbital fibroblasts (OFs) and the synthesis of hyaluronic acid and other glycosaminoglycans due to the activation of OFs. It also induces an inflammatory response, reducing disease activity and improving symptoms such as proptosis, diplopia, ocular congestion, and edema in patients with active TAO.
Current Treatment Landscape
Currently, no targeted drugs for TAO have been approved in China, highlighting the unmet need for effective treatments in this area. Overseas, Genmab’s Tepezza (teprotumumab) is the first and currently only IGF-1R monoclonal antibody to be approved by the FDA for the TAO indication. Innovent’s IBI311 aims to address this gap in the market and provide a new treatment option for patients suffering from TAO.-Fineline Info & Tech
