Celldex Therapeutics announced positive preclinical data for CDX-622, a bispecific antibody targeting thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and stem cell factor (SCF) to address inflammation and fibrosis. The data suggest CDX-622 effectively neutralizes both targets, reducing tissue mast cells and Type 2 inflammatory responses, potentially exceeding the efficacy of single-target therapies. A Phase 1 study in healthy volunteers is currently underway.
This development is noteworthy because it tackles two key inflammatory pathways simultaneously, a novel approach that could significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients with inflammatory and fibrotic disorders. Current therapies often focus on a single pathway, which may be insufficient to control complex disease processes where multiple factors contribute to chronic inflammation. CDX-622’s dual-action mechanism offers the potential for a more comprehensive and effective therapeutic strategy.
Preclinical studies indicated that CDX-622 inhibits both TSLP and SCF-dependent activities •in vitro• with potency comparable to existing monoclonal antibodies targeting these pathways. Importantly, CDX-622 preferentially inhibits the soluble form of SCF, potentially minimizing unwanted effects on other KIT-dependent processes. The antibody also demonstrated favorable pharmacokinetic properties, reduced skin mast cell signatures, and was well-tolerated in toxicology studies.
The positive preclinical data and ongoing Phase 1 trial signal a promising advancement in the development of novel anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic therapies. If the Phase 1 trial results confirm the safety and efficacy observed in preclinical studies, CDX-622 could represent a significant step forward in the treatment of diseases driven by TSLP and SCF, potentially offering patients a more effective treatment option and expanding Celldex’s therapeutic portfolio.
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.
