Roche (SWX: ROG)’s Genentech, a leading biotechnology company based in Switzerland, has received approval to initiate a clinical study in China for its Category 1 drug vixarelimab. The drug will be evaluated as a potential treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC).
Vixarelimab is a selective, fully human monoclonal antibody that targets OSMR β, capable of blocking OSM and IL-31 signaling while maintaining signaling through the LIFR pathway. This targeted approach is designed to provide therapeutic benefits while minimizing potential side effects. The drug was licensed by Roche/Genentech from Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals in a deal valued at USD 100 million in August 2022. Vixarelimab has already achieved the primary endpoint in a Phase IIa study for nodular prurigo, an achievement that led to the drug being granted breakthrough therapy designation (BTD) in the US.- Flcube.com
