IK-008

IK-008 is a selective small molecule antagonist of the prostaglandin E2 receptor 4 (EP4). It was developed as a backup candidate to IK-007 (grapiprant) within Ikena Oncology's EP4 antagonist program. The drug targets the PGE2-EP4 signaling pathway, which is a known mediator of immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment. By blocking EP4, IK-008 aims to reduce the activity of immunosuppressive cells like myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs), thereby enhancing the anti-tumor activity of effector T cells. Ikena Oncology acquired the rights to IK-008 through its acquisition of Arrys Therapeutics, which had originally licensed the compound from AskAt. It is primarily being investigated for its potential in treating solid tumors, including microsatellite stable colorectal cancer (MSS CRC).