Hornet Therapeutics unveils first potential EBV drug in Science

Hornet Therapeutics, a biotech startup, has officially launched with a publication in the esteemed journal Science. The company focuses on developing treatments for diseases driven by Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Their breakthrough involves a small molecule drug targeting the host metabolic enzyme, IDO-1, which EBV exploits to establish latent infections.

Groundbreaking Study Findings
The Science publication identifies IDO-1-driven NAD biosynthesis as a critical pathway that EBV uses to transform and maintain infected B cells. By inhibiting IDO-1, researchers have successfully hindered this transformation, both in vitro and in vivo, offering a potential new therapeutic strategy against EBV-associated diseases, including lymphomas. Existing antiviral developments have largely failed to produce effective treatments specifically targeting EBV, making this discovery particularly significant.

First-Ever Small Molecule Drug for EBV
Hornet’s lead asset, HTX-201, an IDO-1 inhibitor, has shown promise in preclinical models, significantly impacting latency, tumor growth, and survival in cases of EBV-driven post-transplantation lymphoproliferative diseases (PTLD). PTLD is a severe complication affecting up to 30% of high-risk solid organ transplant recipients. Hornet aims to use HTX-201 to simplify post-transplant care, especially in the first year when the risk of PTLD and graft loss is highest.

Strategic Collaborations and Moving Forward
Hornet is backed by a strategic partnership with Kyowa Kirin and seed financing from 4BIO Capital. They have secured the exclusive license to develop and commercialize HTX-201. The company plans to begin phase 1/2 proof-of-concept clinical trials in the next 12-18 months, focusing initially on solid organ transplant populations. Future targets include other EBV-implicated conditions like Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Infectious Mononucleosis, and long-COVID.

Leadership and Expertise
The company is led by Dr. Fraser Gray, formerly of GlaxoSmithKline, and Professor Christoph Hess, a notable figure in the study of lymphocyte function and metabolic bases of immune responses. Their team brings extensive expertise in antiviral discovery and commercialization, positioning Hornet for success.

Significance of the Discovery
Professor Christoph Hess highlighted the historical context of EBV research, noting that despite decades of study, an effective treatment has remained elusive. The new data on HTX-201's ability to disrupt EBV latency and potentially translate into clinical benefits marks a significant advancement in the field.

Support from 4BIO Capital
Dmitry Kuzmin, Managing Partner at 4BIO Capital and Chairman of Hornet Therapeutics, expressed optimism about HTX-201's potential. He noted its significance not only for transplant patients but also for other conditions linked to EBV, like MS and long-COVID.

Conclusion
Hornet Therapeutics' emergence and the publication of their research in Science mark a pivotal step toward addressing EBV-driven diseases. With a robust strategic partnership and a promising lead compound, HTX-201, Hornet is poised to make significant strides in the treatment of these challenging conditions.

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