VTH245

VTH245 is a peptide-based small protein inhibitor developed by Verra Therapeutics for the treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It is designed to selectively inhibit a specific protease that has been definitively linked to the three primary phenotypes of COPD: emphysema, small airway narrowing, and mucus hypersecretion (chronic bronchitis). As a soluble protein inhibitor based on a naturally occurring protein sequence, VTH245 aims to provide high specificity compared to small molecule inhibitors and superior tissue penetration compared to monoclonal antibodies, while maintaining low immunogenicity. Preclinical efficacy studies have demonstrated its potential to reduce mucus overproduction, lung damage, and elastin degradation. The drug is currently in preclinical development with IND-enabling studies underway for administration via subcutaneous and inhaled routes.