Upstream Bio's Verekitug Shows Significant Nasal Polyp Reduction in Phase 2 Trial.

Upstream Bio's Phase 2 trial of verekitug for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) met its primary endpoint, with a statistically significant reduction in endoscopic nasal polyp score of -1.8 (p<0.0001). Secondary endpoints also showed significant improvements, including a -0.8 reduction in nasal congestion score and a 76% reduction in need for surgery or systemic corticosteroids. The treatment was well tolerated with no serious adverse events.

Upstream Bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: UPB) has announced positive top-line results from its Phase 2 VIBRANT trial evaluating verekitug for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). The trial, conducted over 24 weeks, met its primary endpoint, demonstrating a statistically significant reduction in endoscopic nasal polyp score (NPS) of -1.8 (p0.0001) compared to baseline [1].

The trial also achieved significant improvements in key secondary endpoints. There was a -0.8 reduction in nasal congestion score (p=0.0003) and a 76% reduction in the need for surgery or systemic corticosteroids (p=0.03) [1]. These results suggest that verekitug offers substantial clinical benefits, potentially positioning it as a differentiated entry in the biologics market for CRSwNP.

Notably, verekitug's unique mechanism of action as the only clinical-stage antibody targeting the TSLP receptor, rather than TSLP itself, may contribute to its enhanced potency [1]. This mechanism could offer advantages in blocking the inflammatory cascade more effectively at the receptor level.

The drug showed a favorable safety profile with no serious adverse events reported, indicating a well-tolerated treatment [1]. The extended dosing interval of every 12 weeks presents a significant convenience advantage over current therapies typically administered every 2-4 weeks, which could improve treatment adherence and patient satisfaction while potentially reducing administration costs [1].

Upstream Bio will need to confirm these findings in larger Phase 3 studies and demonstrate durable efficacy beyond 24 weeks to solidify verekitug's competitive positioning against established biologics like dupilumab and omalizumab [1]. The company plans to present further details from the VIBRANT trial at an upcoming medical conference.

References:
[1] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/UPB/upstream-bio-reports-positive-top-line-results-from-the-phase-2-1tbalh56c1mk.html