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GSK and Empirico Partner to Develop Novel COPD Treatment
Overview
GSK plc (LSE/NYSE: GSK) and Empirico Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in human genetics and siRNA medicines, announced a worldwide exclusive license agreement for EMP-012, a novel siRNA therapeutic. EMP-012 is currently undergoing a Phase 1 clinical trial for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and holds potential for treating other inflammatory respiratory diseases.
The Challenge of COPD and Unmet Medical Needs
Despite advancements in COPD treatment, a substantial medical need remains. COPD is projected to affect approximately 600 million people globally by 2050, becoming the leading cause of hospital admissions and incurring an estimated $4 trillion in healthcare costs.1 The disease’s heterogeneous nature necessitates diverse therapeutic approaches to effectively treat the full spectrum of patients.
Current treatment options often fall short for patients who don’t qualify for biologics or continue to experience symptoms, exacerbations, and hospitalizations. This highlights the need for therapies that address diffrent inflammatory pathways and patient subgroups.
| Metric | Projection (2050) |
|---|---|
| Global COPD Prevalence | 600 Million |
| Projected Healthcare Costs | $4 Trillion |
EMP-012: A Novel Approach to COPD Treatment
EMP-012, discovered by Empirico, utilizes a unique mechanism of action targeting a distinct inflammatory pathway. This approach is perhaps effective irrespective of baseline type 2 inflammation, smoking history, or co-morbid conditions. The therapeutic target is supported by robust genetic data and translational insights, increasing confidence in its potential efficacy.
Specifically, EMP-012 coudl benefit patients with non-type 2 inflammation, a subgroup with limited treatment options. Empirico’s proprietary siRNA chemistry enhances EMP-012’s potency and allows for a longer dosing interval, complementing GSK’s existing COPD programs, including long-acting biologics.
Beyond its potential as a standalone therapy,EMP-012 could be used in combination with other treatments to provide synergistic benefits.
The Science Behind siRNA and EMP-012
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) is a type of oligonucleotide that silences specific genes. By targeting the mRNA responsible for producing a disease-causing protein, siRNA effectively reduces the protein’s levels, thereby mitigating the disease process. EMP-012 leverages this mechanism to target a key inflammatory pathway involved in COPD.
Empirico’s proprietary siRNA chemistry is crucial to EMP-012’s enhanced potency and extended dosing interval. This technology improves the drug’s stability and delivery to the lungs, maximizing its therapeutic effect.
Financial Details and Agreement Terms
The agreement between GSK and Empirico includes an upfront payment to Empirico, as well as potential milestone payments contingent upon achieving specific progress and commercialization milestones. Empirico is also eligible to receive tiered royalties on future sales of EMP-012. Specific financial terms were not disclosed in the initial declaration.
