Evommune, Inc. has dosed the first patient in its Phase 2b trial of EVO756, an oral small molecule designed to block MRGPRX2, a key driver of chronic inflammation. The study targets adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD).
Why EVO756 Matters
- Target: MRGPRX2, a receptor found on mast cells and sensory neurons.
- Potential: First oral therapy addressing both inflammation and neurogenic itch.
- Rationale: Translational data show increased mast cells and MRGPRX2 ligands in AD lesions.
Luis Peña, CEO of Evommune, said:
“MRGPRX2 is one of the most important new targets in chronic inflammation. EVO756 could be a critically needed oral therapeutic for AD and beyond.”
The Trial Design
- Size: ~120 patients.
- Type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging.
- Duration: 12 weeks.
- Endpoints:
- Primary: Change in Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) at Week 12.
- Secondary: Pruritus-NRS to measure itch severity.
The trial compares EVO756 with placebo at multiple dose levels.
Expanding the Pipeline
Evommune is running two Phase 2 programs with EVO756 and EVO301 in AD, while also advancing a Phase 2b trial of EVO756 in chronic spontaneous urticaria. The company expects several clinical inflection points in 2026.
Dr. Eugene Bauer, CMO, highlighted the patient need:
“There is still a significant gap in treatment for AD itch. MRGPRX2 antagonism is exciting because it targets both mast cells and sensory neurons.”
Atopic Dermatitis: The Unmet Need
- AD affects 15–20% of children and 1–3% of adults.
- Symptoms include red lesions, dry scaly skin, and relentless itch.
- The itch-scratch cycle worsens inflammation and disrupts sleep, leading to poor quality of life.
About MRGPRX2
- A GPCR receptor on mast cells and sensory neurons.
- Activated by ligands common during inflammation.
- Plays a role in multiple chronic inflammatory diseases.
- Potential applications: AD, chronic urticaria, asthma, migraine, IBD, interstitial cystitis, and pruritus.
About Evommune
Evommune is a clinical-stage biotech developing therapies that target the root drivers of chronic inflammation. Its goal: improve daily life for patients and prevent long-term consequences of uncontrolled inflammation.
