CHENGDU, CHINA, Feb.24, 2023 –  Keymed Biosciences (HKEX: 02162) and InnoCare Pharma (HKEX: 09969; SSE: 688428) jointly announced today that the first subject has been dosed in clinical trial of CM369 (ICP-B05), an anti-CC chemokine receptor 8 (CCR8) monoclonal antibody, developed by a joint venture between the two companies called Tiannuojiancheng Pharma in China.

CM369 is a potential first-in-class drug co-developed by Keymed and InnoCare as a monotherapy or in combination with other therapies for the treatment of various cancers.

There are no CCR8-targeted drugs in the world. CM369 selectively depletes Tregs in the tumor microenvironment, which is more specific than other immunotherapies. CM369 binds to CCR8 on Tregs and eradicates immunosuppressive Tregs through ADCC to augment the anti-tumor immunity in TME while preserving peripheral homeostasis. CM369 has the potential to deliver optimal tumor targeted Treg depletion and be more specific in anti-tumor activity than other immunotherapies.

Dr. Bo Chen, Co-founder, Chairman and CEO of Keymed Biosciences, said: “CM369 has the potential to specifically eliminate tumor-infiltrating Treg cells, and has a positive therapeutic effect on a variety of advanced tumors. We are mindful of the importance of this therapy and are committed to expediting the clinical development of a potentially transformative solution for patients in need.”

Dr. Jasmine Cui, Co-Founder, Chairwoman and CEO of InnoCare, said: “CCR8 is a highly promising immuno-oncology target. CM369 will strengthen our large molecule pipeline in solid tumor and has a potential for combination with other therapies for synergistic effects. We will accelerate clinical development, diversify our innovative drug solutions to solve unmet clinical needs, and make unremitting efforts to benefit solid tumor patients.”