Ensho Therapeutics launches with IBD assets from Eisai subsidiary

Ensho Therapeutics has officially launched with the acquisition of a collection of oral α4β7 integrin inhibitors aimed at treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These inhibitors were obtained from EA Pharma, a subsidiary of Eisai. The most advanced drug in this portfolio, NSHO-101, is set to progress into Phase II clinical trials for ulcerative colitis (UC) in the first half of 2025.

The company was founded by Neena Bitritto-Garg, who highlighted that the α4β7 integrin inhibitors are “derived from AJM300, an oral α4 inhibitor that has been approved in Japan for induction therapy in UC,” marketed under the brand name Carogra (carotegrast methyl). Bitritto-Garg explained that her previous experience in business development at Eisai, along with the potential of this portfolio, inspired her to establish Ensho Therapeutics.

Under the terms of the licensing agreement, Ensho has obtained the development, manufacturing, and commercialization rights for these assets globally, except in Japan, China, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. EA Pharma will receive undisclosed milestone payments and tiered royalties based on net sales.

Ensho will oversee global clinical trials for NSHO-101, formerly known as EA1080, in partnership with EA Pharma. This small molecule functions by inhibiting integrin α4β7, a cell surface receptor instrumental in directing immune cell migration to the intestine, thus playing a significant role in controlling inflammatory responses. The company’s pipeline also includes NSHO-102, which is in Phase I development for IBD, alongside several other follow-on assets.

Bitritto-Garg expressed optimism regarding NSHO-101, stating, “We believe NSHO-101 could be a transformational alternative therapy for patients who continue to suffer from IBD despite multiple lines of therapy.” The investigational drug demonstrated a favorable pharmacokinetic profile and effective target engagement in a previous Phase I study involving 184 healthy participants.

Leadership at Ensho will see Bittoo Kanwar stepping in as CEO starting July 1. Kanwar previously held the role of chief medical officer at Telavant. Notably, Roche acquired Telavant from its parent company Roivant late last year for an upfront payment of $7.1 billion, securing rights to the inflammatory bowel disease drug RVT-3101 for the Swiss pharmaceutical giant.