Arreseto: Blocking Fibroblasts
Arresto aiming to block fibroblasts central to cancer, fibrosis and inflammation
Arresto Biosciences Inc. is developing allosteric inhibitors of enzymes found in the extracellular matrix. Because the company's lead mAb inhibits the formation of pathologic stroma, it offers new mechanisms for treating cancer and fibrosis. In cancer, the mAb should be complementary to drugs that target tumor cells. In fibrotic diseases, the logic is that a more complete blockade of the processes that lead to fibrosis should give the compound the potential to reverse, not just halt, disease.
AB0024, a humanized mAb against lysyl oxidase-like 2 (LOXL2), is expected to enter Phase I testing for advanced solid tumors next month. Arresto is in discussions with FDA about a second trial in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) that could begin in 4Q...