Currently, there are no cures for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and the two available treatments aim to reduce lung scarring and symptom progression. However, it is clear that new therapeutic options are needed to help improve patient outcomes. One potential option is LTI-03, developed by biopharmaceutical company Lung Therapeutics. According to Pulmonary Fibrosis News, Lung Therapeutics recently completed a Phase 1a clinical trial in healthy volunteers.
What is LTI-03?
According to Lung Therapeutics, LTI-03 is:
A peptide representing an important region of the Caveolin 1 (Cav1) protein [which] normally provides a critical function in the prevention of fibrosis. In IPF, the normal function of Cav1 is lost, resulting in an imbalance in cells and the development of fibrosis.
This dry powder is delivered to the lungs to help restore balance, promote healthy lung tissue, and reduce scarring from overactive fibroblast activation. In the Phase 1a trial, 71 participants enrolled. Researchers identified an ideal dose for further study – ranging from 1mg to 10mg – and found the treatment to be safe and well-tolerated.
About Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is aptly named – the hardening or scarring of lung tissue from an unknown cause. Some researchers hypothesize that a mix of genetic and environmental factors spur the development of IPF, which is then triggered by another factor such as cigarette smoking or viral infections. Either way, IPF is characterized by hardening lung tissue which prevents oxygen from entering the bloodstream. An estimated 13-20 in every 100,000 people worldwide has IPF. Unfortunately, the prognosis is poor, with a life expectancy of 3-5 years following diagnosis. This is one of the reasons why finding new therapeutic options is crucial. Symptoms associated with IPF include:
- A dry, hacking cough that does not resolve over time
- Shortness of breath and/or difficulty breathing
- Pulmonary embolisms
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- Appetite loss
- Unintended weight loss
- Clubbed fingers and toes
- Pneumonia
- Increased risk of lung cancer
