By Fineline Cube 
Kintor Pharmaceutical Limited (HKG: 9939) announced that it has finished enrolling 130 subjects in the long‑term human safety study of KT‑939, an in‑house developed tyrosinase inhibitor designed to curb melanin production.
Trial Overview
- Phase: Long‑term safety (Phase 1/2)
- Enrollment: 130 participants (≥18 yrs, Fitzpatrick skin types I‑V)
- Duration: 12‑month follow‑up with quarterly safety assessments
- Primary Endpoint: Incidence of treatment‑emergent adverse events (TEAEs)
- Secondary Endpoints: Pharmacokinetics, skin‑pigmentation changes, and biomarker modulation
How KT‑939 Works
- Targeted Inhibition – Specifically binds to the catalytic tyrosinase enzyme, blocking the oxidation of tyrosine.
- Melanin Suppression – Reduces eumelanin synthesis, yielding lighter skin tone with minimal off‑target activity.
- Dual Action – Exhibits antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory properties, mitigating oxidative stress associated with ultraviolet exposure.
Cosmetic Implications
- Efficacy & Safety – Early data suggest a strong safety profile with no serious adverse events reported.
- Product Potential – Positions KT‑939 as a leading candidate for next‑generation depigmentation, anti‑aging, and photo‑protective formulations.
- Regulatory Path – The safety profile supports forthcoming cosmetic regulatory filings in key markets (EU, US, APAC).
Next Steps
- Phase 2 Efficacy Trial – Planned for early 2026, focusing on high‑pigmentation disorders (melasma, post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation).
- Commercial Partnerships – Kintor is open to strategic alliances with global dermo‑cosmetic brands for co‑development and licensing.
- Manufacturing Scale‑Up – Production capacity is being expanded to meet anticipated demand should the compound reach market approval.
Market Context
The global anti‑pigmentation market is projected to exceed USD 5 bn by 2030, driven by rising consumer demand for skin‑lightening and anti‑aging products. KT‑939’s selective mechanism and favorable safety profile could offer a competitive edge over current non‑selective agents such as hydroquinone and kojic acid.-Fineline Info & Tech