Evaluation of Preclinical AhR Inhibitory Function
as Monotherapy and in Combination with Pembrolizumab
Dong-A ST announced on the 27th that it received approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety on the 24th for the clinical trial plan (IND) of the immuno-oncology drug 'DA-4505' for Phase 1 and 2a trials.
This clinical trial will evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and efficacy of DA-4505 as a monotherapy or in combination with the anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor 'Pembrolizumab' in adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic solid tumors.
DA-4505 is an AhR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor) antagonist. AhR is a regulator of the immune system that suppresses immune responses and prevents tumor cells from being attacked. In preclinical studies, DA-4505 inhibited AhR, restoring suppressed immune responses in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, it activated stimulatory immune cells such as dendritic cells and T cells, while reducing the ability of cancer cells to suppress immunity.
Notably, preclinical comparisons with AhR antagonists under development by global pharmaceutical companies confirmed improved tumor suppression effects. Enhanced tumor suppression was observed with the combination of DA-4505 and the anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor Pembrolizumab.
A Dong-A ST representative stated, "We confirmed the potential of DA-4505 to overcome the limitations of existing immuno-oncology drugs by demonstrating excellent tumor suppression effects in preclinical studies," adding, "We will do our best to successfully complete the Phase 1/2a clinical trials of DA-4505."
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