Redx Pharma PLC (AIM:REDX) has unveiled promising preclinical data for RXC009, a potential new treatment for chronic kidney disease (CKD).
At the recent American Society for Nephrology annual meeting, the company showcased its potential revealing it targets the discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1), a protein implicated in developing fibrosis in CKD.
RXC009 stood out for its high potency and selectivity as a DDR1 inhibitor. This could position it as the first of its kind for clinical use. In laboratory tests, the compound outperformed other DDR inhibitors as it showed a significant reduction in disease markers in a mouse model of kidney fibrosis.
The drug's safety profile was also favourable as it was put through comprehensive absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) testing.
Drug-drug Interaction (DDI) assessments were completed and suggested RXC009 could be combined with other treatments.
With these positive results, RXC009 is now set to enter investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies.
"This compelling preclinical data suggests that our selective DDR1 inhibitor, RXC009, has the potential to be a first-in-class treatment with an initial indication in chronic kidney disease and associated fibrosis, which remains a significant unmet medical need," said chief scientific office Richard Armer.
"The nomination of our 10th development candidate again highlights our medicinal chemistry expertise and unique ability to develop novel drug candidates against historically challenging disease targets."