Shanghai-based biopharmaceutical company LianBio (OTCMKTS: LIANY) has announced the first patient dosing in a Phase III LIBRA study for its TP-03, targeting demodectic blepharitis in Chinese patients. This marks a significant step forward in addressing a prevalent eye disease in the region.
Understanding Demodectic Blepharitis
Demodectic blepharitis is a common eye disease affecting approximately 43 million people in China. Caused by Demodex infection, it is characterized by inflammation, redness, and irritation of the eyelid margin. TP-03 is designed to target and eradicate the pathogen Demodex, with its active ingredient lotilaner acting as an antiparasitic agent. Lotilaner selectively inhibits the y-aminobutyric acid gated chloride channel (GABA Cl), effectively limiting and eradicating the Demodex mite.
Licensing Deal and Clinical Progress
In March 2021, LianBio entered into a USD 200 million licensing agreement with US-based Tarsus Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: TARS), securing exclusive development and commercialization rights for TP-03 in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. The drug has already completed two pivotal Phase III clinical studies in the US, achieving all primary and secondary endpoints. These studies demonstrated that TP-03 is both safe and tolerable, with a strong therapeutic effect against demodectic blepharitis.-Fineline Info & Tech
