Conduit Pharmaceuticals Chooses Initial Indications for Lead Autoimmune Candidate

Conduit Pharmaceuticals has announced strategic plans to advance Phase 2a clinical trials for its leading clinical candidate, AZD1656, targeting systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and ANCA-associated vasculitis. This development marks a significant step forward in Conduit's mission to address pressing medical needs and improve patient outcomes.

Initially developed by AstraZeneca as a treatment for diabetes, AZD1656 is a HK-4 glucokinase activator that is now being repurposed for autoimmune disorders by Conduit. This decision leverages the drug's established safety profile and its targeted immune-modulating effects. The company licensed AZD1656 from AstraZeneca on August 7, 2024, and plans to explore its potential as a treatment for SLE, including lupus nephritis, as well as ANCA-associated vasculitis through Phase 2a, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials.

The trials will involve patients suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus and ANCA-associated vasculitis to assess the drug’s efficacy across a broad spectrum of autoimmune conditions. With its extensive safety data from over 20 trials involving more than 1,000 patients, AZD1656 holds promise as a cornerstone asset in the autoimmune sector. The drug's mechanism aims to activate the immune system while reducing harmful inflammation, positioning it as a potential first-in-class therapy for autoimmune diseases.

Dr. Freda Lewis-Hall, Chair of the Board of Directors at Conduit, expressed optimism about advancing AZD1656 into new therapeutic areas. She emphasized the potential of AZD1656 to revolutionize autoimmune care and provide innovative treatments that could significantly improve patients' lives.

Systemic lupus erythematosus affects over 5 million people globally, including 1.5 million in the United States. Despite advancements in clinical understanding, current treatments largely depend on corticosteroids and non-specific immunosuppressants, which are known for their severe long-term side effects. This underscores the urgent need for safer and more effective treatments.

The market for lupus treatments, encompassing systemic lupus erythematosus and related conditions, was valued at approximately $2.7 billion in 2024. This market is projected to grow substantially, reaching around $4.9 billion by 2030 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 8.9%. Furthermore, the market for ANCA-associated vasculitis was most significant in the U.S. in 2023, valued at around $620 million, and is expected to see considerable growth by 2032.

Conduit Pharmaceuticals operates as a multi-asset, clinical-stage, disease-agnostic life science company with an efficient model for compound development. The company acquires and funds the development of Phase 2-ready assets and seeks exit opportunities through third-party license deals following successful clinical trials. This innovative approach diverges from the traditional pharmaceutical business model of taking assets through regulatory approval. The company is led by a team of seasoned pharmaceutical executives, including Dr. David Tapolczay and Dr. Freda Lewis-Hall, who bring extensive experience to the table.

In summary, Conduit Pharmaceuticals' initiative to repurpose AZD1656 for autoimmune disorders represents a promising advancement in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus and ANCA-associated vasculitis. With a robust safety profile and targeted immune-modulating effects, AZD1656 has the potential to become a groundbreaking therapy in the autoimmune sector, addressing significant unmet medical needs and improving patient outcomes.