Astria Therapeutics has inked a worldwide exclusive license agreement with Ichnos Sciences for an OX40 portfolio targeting the potential treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) and other allergic and immunological diseases.
The focus of the collaboration centers on the development of the lead candidate, STAR-0310, a monoclonal antibody OX40 antagonist utilizing YTE half-life extension technology.
Astria believes the preclinical-stage program holds promise for offering a best-in-class profile in AD, boasting high affinity, reduced treatment burden through infrequent dosing, and enhanced safety and tolerability.
The license agreement involves a one-time upfront license fee of $15 million to Ichnos and potential milestone payments of up to $305 million.
OX40 inhibition has been clinically validated as an effective mechanism for treating AD, offering significant potential for patients.
Astria aims to submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for STAR-0310 by year-end 2024, followed by the initiation of a Phase 1a clinical trial in healthy subjects in Q1 2025.
The company anticipates initial results in the third quarter of 2025, marking a pivotal milestone for the program.