Core Insights - The publication validates the unique anti-inflammatory mechanism of action of efzofitimod through the neuropilin-2 (NRP2) receptor, supporting its clinical program for interstitial lung disease (ILD) [1][3][4] Company Overview - aTyr Pharma, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on developing first-in-class medicines from its proprietary tRNA synthetase platform [2][7] - The lead therapeutic candidate, efzofitimod, is in clinical development for treating ILD, specifically targeting inflammation and fibrosis in the lungs [5][7] Mechanism of Action - Efzofitimod is derived from a splice variant of histidyl-tRNA synthetase (HARS) and selectively binds to NRP2, which is highly expressed in myeloid cells at inflammation sites [3][4] - This binding inhibits pro-inflammatory receptors and cytokines, downregulating inflammatory pathways in macrophages, potentially disrupting chronic inflammation and fibrosis cycles [3][4] Clinical Development - Efzofitimod is currently being investigated in the Phase 3 EFZO-FIT™ study for pulmonary sarcoidosis and the Phase 2 EFZO-CONNECT™ study for systemic sclerosis-related ILD [4][5] - The drug has received orphan drug designation in the U.S., E.U., and Japan for sarcoidosis, as well as Fast Track designation in the U.S. for both pulmonary sarcoidosis and systemic sclerosis-related ILD [4][5] Scientific Validation - The peer-reviewed publication in Science Translational Medicine provides extensive preclinical data supporting efzofitimod's immunomodulatory activity and its potential application in chronic inflammatory conditions [3][4]
aTyr Pharma Announces Publication Demonstrating Efzofitimod's Immunomodulatory Activity in Science Translational Medicine