Airway Therapeutics Expands BPD Research with Phase 3 Trial

Airway Therapeutics Initiates Phase 3 Trial of Zelpultide Alfa

Airway Therapeutics, Inc. is making significant strides in the realm of neonatal healthcare with its recent announcement about a multinational Phase 3 clinical trial designed to evaluate zelpultide alfa (rhSP-D). This innovative therapy aims to prevent bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm neonates considered at high risk. This pivotal trial is set to launch in December 2024 and signifies a major step toward enhancing care for very preterm infants.

The Challenge of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Globally, around 2.5 million very preterm infants are at risk of developing BPD, primarily due to lung injury arising from mechanical ventilation and supportive oxygen therapies. This condition can lead to a myriad of long-term complications, including chronic respiratory issues like asthma, along with pneumonia and various developmental delays in children.

Details of the Phase 3 Trial

The upcoming clinical trial will initially take place in Italy and Spain, with a plan to expand to additional countries in the year that follows. The study will employ a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group design, enrolling approximately 316 neonates born between 23 and 28 weeks of gestation. The focus will be on assessing the efficacy of zelpultide alfa when administered in conjunction with standard care strategies for preventing severity of BPD.

Background and Rationale

Recent advancements in research have paved the way for this trial, with prior Phase 1b studies demonstrating promising results. According to the Chairman and CEO of Airway Therapeutics, Dr. Marc Salzberg, the approval for this Phase 3 trial arises directly from the encouraging outcomes of these preliminary investigations, where no significant toxicities were observed alongside early efficacy indications.

Insights from Leadership

Dr. Salzberg expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the families of neonates participating in the trials. He emphasizes a profound commitment to improving health outcomes for infants born at risk, noting the potential for zelpultide alfa to transform treatment avenues for BPD. This therapy is envisioned not just as a treatment but as a much-needed prevention strategy addressing a critical healthcare challenge.

Understanding Zelpultide Alfa

Infants born at extreme prematurity often lack a crucial protein known as SP-D, which plays a vital role in the immune defense of the lungs by mitigating inflammation and infection. Airway Therapeutics has synthesized zelpultide alfa, the only recombinant version of human SP-D, to serve as a replacement therapy tailored for vulnerable infants. This drug aims to bolster lung health during a pivotal period of development.

The Community Response

The neonatology community holds high hopes for zelpultide alfa, with key figures like Professors Daniele De Luca and Maximo Vento, who are leading investigators in the trial, advocating for its potential benefits. They echo sentiments of optimism and professional integrity in working toward this ground-breaking development aimed at addressing BPD.

Future Prospects for BPD Treatment

The orphan drug designation granted to zelpultide alfa in both the US and Europe highlights its significance within the medical community. The global market for preventing BPD is projected to exceed $5 billion annually, indicating a robust interest and urgent need for effective prevention strategies and therapeutics in this domain.

About Airway Therapeutics

Airway Therapeutics is at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation, striving to alleviate respiratory and inflammatory conditions through the development of novel biologics. The company emphasizes its commitment to advancing the health of the most vulnerable populations—beginning with zelpultide alfa, a transformative candidate aimed at preventing BPD in preterm infants and addressing other serious health conditions such as COVID-19 pneumonia in critically ill patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the aim of the Phase 3 trial for zelpultide alfa?

The trial aims to test the efficacy of zelpultide alfa in preventing bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm neonates.

Where will the Phase 3 trial be conducted?

The trial will initially take place in Italy and Spain, with plans to expand to additional countries in 2025.

What is bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)?

BPD is a serious lung condition affecting preterm infants, often resulting from mechanical ventilation and oxygen support.

What is zelpultide alfa?

Zelpultide alfa is a recombinant protein designed to replace SP-D, which is critical for lung health in very preterm infants.

What impact could zelpultide alfa have on neonatal health?

This therapy has the potential to prevent BPD and its associated complications, significantly improving health outcomes for at-risk infants.

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