Wayne-based Aclaris Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on immuno-inflammatory diseases, recently entered into an exclusive license agreement with Chinese-based Biosion, a biotechnology company, for worldwide rights to BSI-045B and BSI-502.
BSI-045B is a humanized anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to human TSLP, blocking its interaction with the receptor complex and disrupting signal transduction to prevent immune cells targeted by TSLP from releasing proinflammatory cytokines. It is being tested in patients with severe atopic dermatitis, severe asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
BSI-502 is a humanized anti-TSLP and anti-interleukin 4 receptor (IL4R) bispecific antibody that blocks both the upstream TSLP receptor signal transduction and downstream IL4R activation thereby inhibiting this central proinflammatory pathway.
“This transformative transaction, which marks the completion of our strategic review process, accelerates our evolution into becoming a leading immunology company with both small and large molecule drugs,” Dr. Neal Walker, Aclaris interim CEO and board of directors chairman, said. “In addition, the proceeds from the private placement financing announced this morning bolsters our balance sheet and provides us with enhanced financial flexibility to support our strategic growth while maintaining our cash runway into 2028.”
Aclaris also has made two additions to its leadership team: Dr. Hugh Davis as president and COO and Dr. Steven Knapp as executive vice president, head of regulatory and quality.