HPP737
// HPP737
Overview
HPP737 is a novel, potent, and selective phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) inhibitor in development for the treatment of psoriasis. In May 2018, vTv Therapeutics entered into a licensing agreement with Newsoara Biopharma, granting Newsoara the rights to develop and commercialize HPP737 in China and certain Pacific Rim territories. Newsoara has completed one Phase 3 study in China and is currently conducting a second Phase 3 study in China in support of a contemplated new drug application.
// HPP737
Clinical and Nonclinical Studies
vTv conducted one single- and two multiple-ascending-dose studies in healthy participants in the United States, all of which showed a favorable safety profile, with little to no gastrointestinal adverse events, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
HPP737 has shown potent inhibition of interleukin-23 (IL-23) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) production in vitro and in vivo, as well as therapeutic activity in several animal models of inflammation. In addition, HPP737 showed target engagement ex vivo.
Mechanism of Action
PDE4 inhibitors increase intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) levels, resulting in broad anti-inflammatory effects. However, the therapeutic potential of PDE4 inhibitors has historically been limited by dose-limiting adverse events, including nausea and emesis. Preclinical and clinical data to date suggest HPP737 may avoid some of the gastrointestinal side effects (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) commonly associated with other PDE4 inhibitors.