Absci Corporation, a data-first generative AI drug creation company, announced the initiation of IND-enabling studies for ABS-101, a potential best-in-class anti-TL1A antibody designed using Absci’s de novo generative AI foundation model. Given a target structure, Absci uses this model to designate a specific epitope of interest, allowing for the engineering of epitope-specific antibodies to access novel biology. Absci then uses its AI lead optimization models to further engineer candidates to have an optimal clinical development profile.
Absci presented early preclinical data on ABS-101 in January, with three advanced leads showing properties consistent with a potentially superior product profile, including demonstrated high affinity, high potency, favorable developability, and extended half-life. Absci used its de novo AI model to design ABS-101 toward a specific epitope with the objective for superior potency and lower immunogenicity. This target product profile, combined with anticipated high bioavailability, could ultimately improve patient experience with easier, less frequent dosing. Following further confirmatory PK studies in February, Absci selected a development candidate to advance into IND-enabling studies.
“The initiation of IND-enabling studies for ABS-101 represents a major milestone for Absci,” said Sean McClain, Founder and CEO of Absci. “The progress we have made on this program demonstrates the ability of our platform to create a differentiated antibody drug candidate in less than half the time of industry standards, as we expect to submit our IND approximately two years after beginning this program. This achievement illustrates the power of using generative AI to improve the drug discovery process to bring better medicines to patients, faster.”
ABS-101 is Absci’s lead asset from its internal AI Drug Creation asset pipeline focused on cytokine biology. The initiation of IND-enabling studies represents an important step forward in Absci’s efforts to bring potentially transformative therapeutics to patients, faster.
Absci expects to submit an IND for ABS-101 in the first quarter of 2025. Subject to clearance of the IND, Absci expects to initiate Phase 1 studies for this program shortly thereafter.
SOURCE: GlobeNewswire