Acquisition Bolsters Johnson & Johnson’s Dermatology Portfolio and Addresses Unmet Needs in Atopic Dermatitis
Incorporation of bispecific antibodies targeting established disease pathways presents potential for top-tier treatments for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis and asthma
Johnson & Johnson announced a definitive agreement to purchase Proteologix, a private biotech firm specializing in bispecific antibodies for immune-mediated conditions, for $850 million in cash, with an additional potential milestone payment.
Proteologix's portfolio includes PX128, a bispecific antibody aimed at IL-13 and TSLP, poised to enter phase 1 trials for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD) and asthma, and PX130, another bispecific antibody targeting IL-13 and IL-22, currently in preclinical stages for moderate to severe AD.
Given that AD and asthma are heterogeneous diseases with varied driving pathways in different patient subgroups, addressing multiple pathways could lead to highly effective treatments and potential remission.
PX128 targets IL-13-mediated Th2 skin inflammation, a critical pathway in AD and asthma, along with TSLP, which drives tissue inflammation in both conditions. PX130, similarly targeting IL-13-mediated Th2 skin inflammation, also addresses IL-22 to repair the skin barrier and mitigate inflammation from environmental triggers like allergens. Both therapies are designed for infrequent dosing, offering a patient-friendly treatment schedule. This strategic move to enhance a portfolio of unique and complementary bispecific antibodies highlights Johnson & Johnson’s commitment to innovative treatments.
Beyond PX128 and PX130, the acquisition will add several other bispecific antibody programs with potential applications across various diseases, further expanding Johnson & Johnson’s capacity to develop groundbreaking bispecific treatments.
Atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition impacting over 102.8 million children and 101.3 million adults globally. Characterized by an overactive immune response leading to skin inflammation and damage, AD results in dry, itchy skin susceptible to infections. The condition severely affects quality of life, interfering with social interactions, sleep due to intense itching or painful skin, and can lead to anxiety, stress, depression, and a heightened risk of suicide.
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