TAGX-0003

TAGX-0003 is a mid-size oligonucleotide DNA aptamer, developed on TAGCyx Biotechnologies’ Xenoligo platform, that binds human interferon gamma (IFN-γ) with high affinity (~33 pM) and functions as a potent IFN-γ antagonist. It incorporates TAGCyx’s proprietary artificial base Ds to achieve high specificity for IFN-γ and has demonstrated robust suppression of hair regeneration, melanin formation, and MHC class I/II expression in humanized alopecia areata skin models. TAGX-0003 is being advanced primarily for dermatologic, IFN-γ–mediated autoimmune and inflammatory indications such as alopecia areata, vitiligo, and potentially other immunodermatology diseases, with CAGE Bio applying a topical ionic liquid formulation technology to enable dermal and follicular penetration and PeptiStar providing oligonucleotide API manufacturing support. Preclinical development has also explored systemic and formulation variants (e.g., PEG or PMPC conjugates) to optimize pharmacokinetics and half-life for broader therapeutic applications including dry eye.

Other names

Anti-IFNg aptamer TAGX-0003