Citryll, a biotech company focused on immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, has dosed the first patient in its phase IIa clinical trial “Citydream”. The study will evaluate CIT-013, a first-in-class monoclonal antibody targeting Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs), in patients with moderately active rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Why This Matters
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): A chronic autoimmune disease marked by joint inflammation, stiffness, and swelling.
- Unmet need: Despite treatment advances, many patients fail to maintain adequate disease control.
- Novel approach: CIT-013 clears existing NETs and blocks new formation, offering a dual mechanism distinct from current therapies.
Trial Design – Citydream
- Type: Phase IIa, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-centre study.
- Participants: 88 RA patients with moderately active disease.
- Duration: 6-week treatment phase + open-label extension to further assess safety and efficacy.
- Location: Conducted across several European sites.
Expert Commentary
Dr. Maarten Kraan, Chief Medical Officer, Citryll:
“Dosing the first patient marks a major milestone. Citydream validates the potential of CIT-013 to transform RA treatment and address unmet needs.”
Dr. Rogier Thurlings, Lead Investigator, Citydream:
“By targeting NETs, CIT-013 offers a disease-modifying approach. Its mode of action differs fundamentally from existing RA therapies, which often fall short.”
Strategic Updates
- Clinical Advisory Board: Established to guide CIT-013’s RA and autoimmune pipeline development.
- Pipeline expansion: A second phase IIa trial in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is planned for later this year.
- Funding: Backed by an €85M Series B and strong investor syndicate.
- Previous success: Phase I trial showed repeat dosing feasibility and safety in RA patients.
About CIT-013
- First-in-class antibody targeting NETs, a key driver of inflammation in RA and other autoimmune conditions.
- Dual mechanism:
- Enhances clearance of existing NETs.
- Inhibits formation of new NETs. - Selectivity: Highly specific for its epitope, minimizing off-target effects.
- Potential impact: Moves beyond pathway management toward a transformative, disease-modifying strategy.
About Citryll
Citryll is a research-driven biotech pioneering therapies against NETs. The company aims to reshape treatment for RA and other immune-mediated diseases by addressing a fundamental driver of inflammation that has yet to be targeted therapeutically.
