Evotec SE announced that as a part of its ongoing partnership with STORM Therapeutics, the latter has selected STC-15 as a superior development candidate. It will use the unique integrated, enhanced IND-enabling platform of Evotec, INDiGO to develop STC-15 to an IND application in 2021.
STORM found STC-15, which is a small molecule, orally bioavailable inhibitor of the enzyme METTL3 that targets modulation of RNA epigenetics, a completely novel mechanism of action, to treat acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and other haematological and solid cancers with the help from pre-clinical drug identification engine of Evotec.
STORM is a leader in the worldwide field of RNA modulation having verified in vivo proof of idea activity of the 1st methyltransferase inhibitor in applicable models for myeloid and solid tumors. METTL3 is one of two programs from the STORM platform that are already demonstrated in vivo activity.
Evotec’s Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Craig Johnstone stated that the relation with STORM signifies the ability of Evotec to support the investigation of new and exciting biology to make the most of innovation along with executing efficiently with the fast and continuous integration from the target through to IND.
The CEO at STORM, Dr. Keith Blundy, affirmed that the identification of STC-15 was done with Evotec’s support and is a very strong and selective METTL3 inhibitor that is efficacious in leukaemia cells refractory to chemotherapy treatment. These patients will be combined in the primary clinical trials that aim to speed-up clinical evidence of concept for patients with limited other options along with discovering combinations with the standard of care.
STORM aims to be the first company in the world to provide a disease-modifying agent that operates by targeting RNA-modulating enzymes. With help from Evotec, the company has quickly and successfully progressed the work that results in a superior development candidate, confirmed Dr. Blundy.