China-based Transcenta Holding Ltd (HKG: 6628) has announced that it has received Investigational New Drug (IND) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for TST004, a best-in-class, humanized monoclonal antibody targeting MASP2. The drug is set to be evaluated as a potential treatment for immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN).
Targeting MASP2 for IgAN Treatment
MASP2, or mannose-binding protein-associated serine protease 2, is a key enzyme in the lectin pathway initiation of complement activation. Research has shown that activation of the lectin pathway contributes to multiple human diseases, including IgAN and hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation–associated thrombotic microangiopathy (HSCT-TMA). As a result, inhibiting MASP2 is considered a potential therapeutic approach for diseases related to lectin pathway activation.
TST004: Mechanism and Clinical Need
TST004 is a humanized monoclonal antibody designed to target MASP2 and prevent inflammation and tissue damage caused by lectin pathway complement activation. IgAN is a significant health concern, with 30% to 45% of patients ultimately developing end-stage kidney disease. Current treatment options for IgAN are limited, highlighting the need for innovative therapies like TST004.-Fineline Info & Tech
