HK inno.N has secured approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for a phase 2 trial of IN-115314, a topical janus kinases (JAK-1) inhibitor targeting mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.
HK inno.N moves its JAK inhibitor into phase 2, aiming for a safer, topical treatment for atopic dermatitis. (Courtesy of HK inno.N)
HK inno.N moves its JAK inhibitor into phase 2, aiming for a safer, topical treatment for atopic dermatitis. (Courtesy of HK inno.N)
Unlike oral JAK inhibitors, IN-115314 is designed for direct application to inflamed skin, limiting systemic absorption and potentially reducing side effects. It’s the first topical JAK-1 inhibitor under development in Korea, according to HK inno.N.
The phase 1 study wrapped up in December, showing IN-115314 outperformed a reference drug in efficacy while demonstrating a favorable safety and pharmacokinetic profile. The phase 2 trial will test optimal dosing in adults.
Atopic dermatitis affects 3 to 7 percent of adults worldwide, with around 970,000 patients treated in Korea in 2023. Existing topical treatments, such as corticosteroids and phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor (PDE4) inhibitors, can cause discomfort or have long-term use restrictions, leaving room for alternatives.
JAK inhibitors are in high demand, with the market expected to grow from 20.19 billion dollars in 2024 to 23.76 billion dollars in 2025—an annual growth rate of 17.7 percent. A competing JAK inhibitor saw sales climb 50 percent last year, reaching 508 million dollars.
“There is a growing need for a topical alternative to existing oral JAK inhibitors, which have limitations in safety and efficacy. By combining pharmaceutical and cosmetic technology, we aim to provide more diverse treatment options for atopic dermatitis patients,” an HK inno.N spokesperson said.
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