The first patient has been dosed in a new clinical trial of an investigational drug for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The drug, called GLPG1205, is being developed by Galapagos, and you can read about this news in more detail at their press release, here.
About Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)
IPF is caused by the small air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs becoming damaged and scarring. This can lead to the lungs becoming stiff and may make it difficult for oxygen to reach the blood. Often, symptoms get worse over time, although the pace at which this happens varies between patients. Currently, there isn’t a cure for IPF, and treatment focuses on reducing and slowing symptoms.
About GLPG1205
GLPG1205 is an investigational drug being developed by Galapagos as a potential treatment for IPF. It’s a small molecule that selectively antagonises the target GPR84. So far, studies using pre-clinical models of IPF have reportedly shown promising results, and multiple Phase I clinical trials have been successfully completed.
The Phase 2 Trial
The next step in the development of the drug is a Phase 2 trial. Called the PINTA trial, this will be a randomised and double-blind study designed to compare the effects of GLPG1205 to a placebo in around sixty patients with IPF. The drug will be given to the participants for 26 weeks, and they will have the option to continue with their standard of care therapy. The first patient in this study has just been dosed.
The main goal of the study is to measure how the Forced Vital Capacity (a measure of lung function) changes from baseline over the course of the study in the drug and placebo groups. However, researchers will also assess other factors, including the safety and effects of the drug, and its impact on patients’ quality of life.
