AstraZeneca’s IL-33 Drug Shows Mixed Results in COPD Trials, Despite Phase 2 Setbacks

AstraZeneca's IL-33 Drug Development:
AstraZeneca has discontinued its IL-33 drug program for diabetic kidney disease (DKD) due to disappointing phase 2b efficacy data but continues to advance tozorakimab (MEDI3506) in other indications, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and viral lung infection.

COPD Trials:
Tozorakimab is in phase 3 studies for COPD, aiming to reduce exacerbations and improve lung function. Despite mixed results in phase 2 trials, AstraZeneca remains optimistic about its potential in COPD treatment.

Mechanism of Action:
IL-33/ST2 pathway plays a crucial role in inflammatory and remodeling processes in COPD. Targeting this pathway with antibodies like tozorakimab and itepekimab has shown promise in reducing exacerbations and improving lung function in moderate-to-severe COPD patients.

Safety and Tolerability:
Anti-IL-33/ST2 therapies have demonstrated good safety and tolerability profiles in airway diseases, with no significant increase in infection risk observed in clinical trials.

Future Directions:
AstraZeneca is planning phase 3 studies for tezepelumab in COPD, following encouraging phase 2a results that showed a 17% numerical reduction in annual exacerbation rate and improvements in lung function and quality of life.