Munich-based biotechnology company Ethris has announced encouraging topline data from a phase 1 clinical trial evaluating its lead messenger RNA (mRNA) candidate, ETH47. The therapy is intended for the treatment of uncontrolled asthma, a condition where asthma symptoms are frequent and disruptive, often due to a virus infection.
Targeting the source of uncontrolled asthma
The mechanism of action of ETH47 aims to prevent the symptoms of uncontrolled asthma at the source by inducing an innate immune response at the point of entry of viruses. The mRNA therapeutic encodes the interferon lambda (IFNλ) protein, which is essential for maintaining immunity against viruses in the respiratory tract.
The phase 1 study evaluated 40 healthy volunteers who were administered ETH47 through inhalation. Results showed that the mRNA drug was generally safe and well tolerated across all dose levels. No severe adverse events or treatment discontinuation was reported among the participants.
In addition, the treatment induced a dose-dependent production of IFNλ in the nasal lining fluid. Neither the mRNA drug nor IFNλ showed to be systemically available elsewhere in the body, showing promise for the company’s targeted strategy aiming to minimize any potential off-target effects.
Expert perspectives on ETH47’s potential
“These positive phase 1 results reinforce the promise of ETH47 as a potentially safe and transformative treatment option for asthma patients, while also validating our proprietary technology platforms as a viable delivery option for mRNA therapeutics to the respiratory tract,” said Thomas Langenickel, Chief Medical Officer at Ethris.
“This significant milestone demonstrates the ability of our technology to deliver precisely designed mRNA candidates to the respiratory tract, facilitating production of the encoded protein and engagement with the intended target. With this strong foundation, we look forward to advancing ETH47 into phase 2 trials in 2025 and remain committed to exploring its potential to transform care for patients with asthma and broader respiratory conditions.”
Ethris’ broader mRNA platform and future plans
The results provide further validation of Ethris’ technology platform, which focuses on the design of mRNA therapeutics that can be delivered to the respiratory tract through inhalation. The goal is to produce a targeted immune response at the location where viruses enter the respiratory system without causing widespread immune reactions elsewhere.
The company is also developing protein replacement therapy candidates using its technology platform, with candidates targeting rare genetic disorders such as primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) and pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) currently in the discovery and preclinical stages.
Ethris has announced plans to start a phase 2a clinical trial in the second quarter of 2025, which will evaluate the effects of ETH47 in asthma patients who have contracted a rhinovirus infection.
