Concerto Biosciences Begins Phase 1 Trial of ENS-002 for Atopic Dermatitis

Concerto Biosciences, a biotechnology firm known for its innovative screening technology, kChip, has recently initiated Phase 1 of its first human trial for ENS-002. This three-strain live biotherapeutic aims to tackle atopic dermatitis by targeting the inflammation-causing microbe Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The trial aims to explore the potential of ENS-002 to provide long-lasting relief from atopic dermatitis, which is commonly known as eczema.

The company's CEO, Cheri Ackerman, expressed enthusiasm over the enrollment of the first participant in the trial. She emphasized the significance of ENS-002 for the millions suffering from eczema. Current treatments for eczema like steroids and immunosuppressants often present side effects and may lose effectiveness over time. In contrast, ENS-002 offers a unique solution by addressing the underlying microbiome deficiency associated with the condition.

ENS-002 was discovered using Concerto's kChip technology, which screens millions of microbial combinations to create a comprehensive dataset. This dataset provides predictive insights into microbial interactions, leading to the development of innovative products like ENS-002. Ackerman highlighted that this clinical milestone is not only a step forward in managing a challenging skin condition but also showcases the potential of carefully chosen microbial combinations to treat complex diseases tied to microbiome deficiencies.

The clinical study for ENS-002 will enroll approximately nine participants, divided into three cohorts with increasing dose concentrations and frequencies. The primary goals are to assess safety and tolerability, while secondary objectives include evaluating the ability of ENS-002 to manage S. aureus levels and address atopic dermatitis symptoms. The Phase 1 trial, named Topical ENS-002 for Atopic Dermatitis in Adults (EnSync), is currently open for enrollment, with results on safety and preliminary mechanisms anticipated in 2025.

Concerto Biosciences focuses on exploring the microbial world to discover groundbreaking microbe-based products. The company draws inspiration from microbial ecology, recognizing that microbes play vital roles in improving human health, food quality, and agricultural productivity. To design products that replicate these capabilities, Concerto utilizes kChip, a discovery engine that constructs millions of miniature, defined microbial communities. By observing these communities, the company rapidly identifies promising microbes, prebiotics, and postbiotics for new product development.

In its initial project, Concerto created over six million communities of skin-dwelling microbes to identify a bacterial ensemble that alleviates eczema by pacifying pathogenic S. aureus. Building on this success, the company has launched discovery projects in various fields, including women's health and agriculture. Collaborating with a diverse range of biotech and biopharma companies, Concerto aims to revolutionize microbial research and product development.

Concerto Biosciences remains committed to advancing our understanding of microbial interactions and leveraging this knowledge to develop innovative solutions for health and wellness challenges. As the Phase 1 trial for ENS-002 progresses, the company looks forward to uncovering new therapeutic possibilities and improving the lives of those affected by atopic dermatitis and other microbiome-related conditions.