
Core Insights - Assembly Biosciences, Inc. has initiated a Phase 1b study for ABI-1179, a long-acting helicase-primase inhibitor targeting recurrent genital herpes, with the first participant dosed [1][2][3] - The study aims to evaluate the safety and antiviral activity of ABI-1179 over a 29-day treatment period, focusing on viral shedding rates and clinical outcomes [2][6] - ABI-1179 has shown promising interim results in Phase 1a, supporting its once-weekly oral dosing regimen [2][3] Company Developments - The Phase 1b study for ABI-1179 is running concurrently with ABI-5366, both of which have met the company's pharmacokinetic targets in earlier trials [3] - The company has received clearance for an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to expand the Phase 1b study to additional sites in the United States [3] - Interim data from both studies is expected to be reported in fall 2025 [1][3] Industry Context - Recurrent genital herpes affects millions, with current therapies being inadequate in managing the frequency and severity of outbreaks [4][9] - The standard treatment has not seen new drug approvals in over 25 years, highlighting a significant unmet need in the market [9] - Helicase-primase inhibitors like ABI-1179 represent a novel approach that may offer superior efficacy compared to existing nucleoside analogs [10]