Auron Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotech company, announced progress on its lead KAT2A/B program and candidate AUTX-703, along with a successful $27 million Series B funding round. The FDA cleared Auron’s Investigational New Drug application, paving the way for clinical trials of AUTX-703, a novel oral KAT2A/B degrader, in patients with hematological malignancies. Preclinical data presented at the 2024 ASH Annual Meeting showed a significant survival advantage in acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) models, and the company plans to explore the drug’s efficacy in solid tumors like neuroendocrine prostate and small-cell lung cancer.
This development marks a critical step in addressing the need for novel therapies for hematological malignancies and potentially solid tumors. AUTX-703’s mechanism of action, targeting KAT2A/B degradation, represents a fresh approach with the potential to improve outcomes for patients who currently have limited treatment options. The positive preclinical data, particularly the survival advantage observed in AML models, suggests a promising therapeutic profile. This progress also validates Auron’s AURIGIN™ platform, demonstrating its capacity to identify and develop novel drug candidates.
The Series B funding will enable Auron to conduct a Phase 1 clinical proof-of-concept trial of AUTX-703 in AML patients, starting in the first quarter of 2025. The funds will also support further investigation into the potential of KAT2A/B inhibition in autoimmune diseases and continued development of novel EMT tumor targets identified using the AURIGIN platform. The financing round was led by DCVC Bio with participation from several other investors, including Apollo Health Ventures, Arkin Bio Ventures, and BrightEdge.
This news signifies a major advancement for Auron Therapeutics, positioning the company as a key player in the development of innovative cancer therapies. The initiation of clinical trials for AUTX-703 is a crucial milestone, bringing the company closer to potentially delivering a first-in-class treatment to patients with hematological malignancies and possibly other cancers. The expanded research into autoimmune diseases broadens the company’s therapeutic scope and further highlights the versatility of its drug discovery platform. This progress positions Auron for continued growth and reinforces its potential to make a significant impact on patient care.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
