US20260209340
2026-07-23
Chemistry; metallurgy
C07K16/248
The patent application focuses on novel treatments for inflammatory lung diseases, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It introduces therapeutic agents, specifically antibodies and bispecific antibodies, designed to treat these conditions. Additionally, the application covers polynucleotides encoding these antibodies, vectors and host cells containing these polynucleotides, and methods for antibody production.
COPD is a persistent inflammatory lung disease mainly caused by long-term exposure to harmful gases or particles, with cigarette smoke being the most common culprit. It is the third leading cause of death globally, with significant morbidity and mortality. COPD symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, and mucus production, often leading to acute exacerbations that worsen the disease. Current treatments involve bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and recently, biologics like dupilumab. However, there remains a significant need for improved treatment options.
The inventors discovered that IL-33 and IL-6 play a cooperative role in activating endothelial cells, which contributes to COPD pathology. This activation leads to immune cell recruitment and increased vascular permeability, exacerbating lung inflammation. The invention proposes that combined inhibition of IL-33 and IL-6 can effectively reduce inflammation and improve COPD treatment outcomes.
The treatment method involves administering a combination of IL-33 and IL-6 inhibitors to individuals with inflammatory lung disease. The IL-33 inhibitors include antibodies such as anti-IL-33 and anti-ST2 antibodies, while IL-6 inhibitors include anti-IL-6 and anti-IL-6R antibodies. This combined approach is expected to enhance therapeutic efficacy compared to using single inhibitors.
The invention also describes the development of bispecific antibodies that can simultaneously bind to IL-33 and IL-6. These antibodies are designed to increase therapeutic effectiveness by targeting both inflammation pathways. The bispecific antibodies feature specific antigen binding domains for IL-33 and IL-6, potentially offering a more comprehensive treatment for COPD.