Cantargia reported encouraging progress in the ongoing phase I clinical trial of the CAN10 antibody. The study proceeds according to plan, with the four initial dose groups concluded without any safety concerns. In addition, as predicted from preclinical models, CAN10 binds to its target, IL1RAP, on immune cells from the study subjects in a dose dependent manner.

CAN10 is one of two clinical projects in the Cantargia pipeline. The CAN10 antibody has been designed for treatment of autoimmune/inflammatory diseases with lead indications being systemic sclerosis and myocarditis. The phase I clinical trial initially investigates increasing levels of CAN10 as single dose administration in healthy subjects followed by studies of multiple dosing in patients with psoriasis.

The primary endpoint relates to safety. The first four dose groups in healthy subjects have now concluded the treatment period. No safety concerns have been observed and the fifth dose group has started in accordance with the protocol.

In addition, a receptor occupancy study shows that already at initial dose levels, the majority of IL1RAP molecules on immune cells are binding CAN10 in a dose dependent manner. This is in line with predictions from preclinical studies. Furthermore, biomarker samples taken during the study are currently analyzed to document blocking of IL-1 and IL-36 stimulation of immune cells.

The first results from such studies are expected during second quarter 2024. Studies in patients with psoriasis are expected to start second quarter 2024.