TYK2 and JAK1 are members of the Janus Kinase (JAK) family of protein kinase enzymes with roles in pro-inflammatory responses in autoimmune diseases and tumour cell proliferation in certain cancers. Members of the JAK family are the targets of several marketed and clinical-stage drugs for cancer and autoimmune diseases, although there are currently no marketed products specifically targeting TYK2.
Sareum's TYK2/JAK1 preclinical devlopment candidate molecule, SDC-1801, demonstrates high selectivity for TYK2 and JAK1 kinases (particularly over related JAK2 and JAK3), compelling activity in disease models of psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, the potential for once-daily oral dosing and a good early safety profile. Closely related molecules, including SAR-20347, also show good activity in models of inflammatory bowel disease and systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). These attributes strongly support the progression of SDC-1801 through preclinical development and, pending satisfactory progress, advancement into human clinical trials, which could begin in 2021.
Preclinical development candidate SDC-1801 was nominated from a novel series of compounds designed and identified by Sareum following a rigorous selection process. The company is also completing its assessment of further dual TYK2/JAK1 inhibitors for the potential treatment of certain cancers and/or as a back-up to SDC-1801.
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