Autotelic Bio announced that "ATB-610", a selective ALK5 inhibitor which is being developed as an inhalation therapy for IPF (Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis) treatment, was selected to a new drug R&D ecosystem establishment research project by KDDF (Korea Drug Development Fund) and entered into an agreement. 

"National novel drug development project" is a pan-departmental government support that supports the entire cycle of novel drug development including non-clinical and clinical stages in order to enhance the global competitiveness of domestic pharmaceutical and bio industry and promote national health. The new drug R&D ecosystem establishment research is a project to support research on deriving new drug candidantes that can enter non-clinical trials through optimization of lead candidates. 

Autotelic Bio will be supported R&D expenses for two years to derive candidates with the final goal of developing a new drug that overcomes the limitation of efficacy and toxicity of existing IPF treatments. 

Autotelic Bio’s ATB-610 is a novel compound with differentiated ALK family selectivity and strong efficacy. It is expected to maximize efficacy and minimize toxicity developed by lung inhalation agent.

Taehun Kim, CEO of Autotelic Bio, said, “The IPF field is a market with high unmet medical needs due to the limitation of existing treatments and the market is expected to grow to more than 7 trillion won in 2024.” “Autotelic Bio is developing ATB-610 as the ‘first-in-class’ as an inhaled ALK-5 inhibitor for IPF treatment.” 

Meanwhile, CEO Taehun Kim awarded commendation from the Minister of the Health and Welfare at the 36th Medicine Day event this month, and recruited Dr. Youngsoo Kim, who was in charge of research and development of anticancer drugs at Ionis Therapeutics, as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). Despite of internal and external difficulties in the domestic bio industry, Autotelic Bio is continuing their steps for continuous development.

Dr. Youngsoo Kim will advise on the implementation strategy, technology and clinical trials of the targeted anticancer treatment that is being developed by Autotelic Bio based on his 17 years of experience of research and development of anticancer drugs at Ionis Therapeutics, a global leading company in ASO filed.