By Fineline Cube 
Hong Kong-based biotech SinoMab BioScience Ltd (HKG: 3681) has announced positive results from the Phase Ib study of its first-in-class atopic dermatitis (AD) drug, SM17. The study demonstrated significant improvements in key efficacy endpoints, with a favorable safety profile.
Clinical Trial Results
Among patients treated with high-dose SM17:
- 91.7% achieved a response of at least a 4-point decrease (NRS-4) in peak itch intensity from baseline, compared to 0% in the placebo group.
- 75% achieved EASI75 (≥75% improvement in Eczema Area and Severity Index from baseline), compared to 0% in the placebo group.
- 41.7% achieved IGA 0/1 (a validated Investigator’s Global Assessment score of 0 or 1 with ≥2-point improvement from baseline), compared to 0% in the placebo group.
No serious adverse events were reported, and no drug-related adverse events of grade 3 or above occurred.
Mechanism of Action
SM17 works by binding to IL-17RB on Type 2 Innate Lymphoid cells (ILC2s), blocking the cascade of responses induced by interleukin-25 (IL-25). This mechanism suppresses downstream signaling pathways of Th2 type interleukins (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13), effectively reducing inflammation associated with atopic dermatitis.-Fineline Info & Tech