A trial for a novel COPD treatment is underway, with the first patients receiving doses of HBM9378/WIN378 (also known as SKB378) — a next generation, fully human monoclonal antibody that has the potential to inhibit the TLSP ligand associated with both COPD and asthma.
Pharmaceutical company Harbour BioMed announced in a press release that it has partnered with Windward Bio on the phase 2 SIRIUS COPD study of HMB9378/WIN378. The trial is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-finding study designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe COPD.
The treatment is also currently being evaluated for asthma in the phase 2/3 POLARIS study, with data from that trial expected in late 2026.
The TLSP ligand plays a key role in the development and progression of many immunological diseases, including COPD and asthma. Jinsong Wang, MD, chairman and founder of Harbour BioMed, said that the company is pleased to see the continued clinical advancement of the potential treatment.
“This milestone further highlights the potential of HMB9378/WIN378 as a differentiated, ultra long-acting anti-TLSP antibody for immunological diseases,” Dr. Wang said. “We look forward to supporting the continued advancement of the program and ultimately bringing innovative treatment options to patients living with COPD worldwide.”
According to the press release, HMB9378/WIN378 was studied in a phase 1 trial that concluded it has an extended half-life that is suitable for twice-yearly dosing, demonstrated a low rate of antidrug antibodies and was safe and well tolerated up to the highest dose tested.
