Researchers have been evaluating ‘1104, an investigational immune-resetting molecule, for patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Through immune resetting, some believe that ‘1104 could reduce the inflammatory cascade related to EoE, as well as provide relief from symptoms and other negative health impacts. According to a recent news release from globenewswire.com, Phase 2a proof-of-concept trial has now been completed.
Within the study, researchers were examining the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of ‘1104. Revolo Biotherapeutics explains that:
‘1104 was derived from a natural immune-regulatory protein, Mycobacterium tuberculosis Chaperonin 60.1, involved in resetting the immune system. It may provide long-term remission for many allergic diseases.
‘1104 was found to be safe and well-tolerated in both a first-in-human Phase 1 study and a secondary Phase 1 study. No serious adverse reactions occurred in either study. Topline data from the Phase 2a trial should be available at some point next year. Given that there is a need for new effective treatment options for eosinophilic esophagitis, ‘1104 does have the potential to greatly change the therapeutic realm.
What is Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)?
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune-mediated allergic disorder characterized by high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the esophagus. Normally, eosinophils play a role in immune function and infection fighting. However, a large accumulation of eosinophils can be characteristic of allergic conditions. In EoE, excessive amounts of eosinophils are present in the esophagus. Many hypothesize that this is due to certain environmental allergens, an underlying genetic component, or immune hypersensitivity. Additionally, many people with this condition often have other allergic conditions like eczema or asthma. Regardless, EoE causes esophageal inflammation and can lead to damage and other negative impacts.
Symptoms and characteristics of EoE can include:
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Appetite loss
- Malnutrition
- Reflux that fails to improve with medication
- Poor feeding and growth (in infants)
- Unintended weight loss
- Food impaction in the throat
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
