Arbutus Biopharma
Arbutus Biopharma is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing combination therapies to cure Hepatitis B virus (HBV). The company has a dynamic portfolio of virology assets, including imdusiran (AB-729) and AB-101, and is engaged in multiple strategic partnerships and clinical trials.
Company Overview
Arbutus Biopharma is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing a cure for Hepatitis B virus (HBV) through combination therapies. The company maintains a dynamic portfolio of virology assets aimed at curing HBV and is headquartered in Warminster, Pennsylvania, United States.
Pipeline and Clinical Trials
Arbutus Biopharma is conducting multiple Phase 2a clinical trials for imdusiran (AB-729) in combination with other antiviral agents for the treatment of chronic Hepatitis B (cHBV). Imdusiran is a subcutaneously-delivered RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutic designed to reduce all HBV viral antigens, including hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), targeting hepatocytes using a novel covalently conjugated N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) delivery technology. Additionally, AB-101, an oral PD-L1 inhibitor, is being evaluated in a Phase 1a/1b clinical trial.
HBV Treatment Strategy
Arbutus Biopharma employs a three-pronged approach to HBV treatment: (1) Suppress viral DNA, (2) Reduce viral antigens, and (3) Boost the host’s immune response. This multifaceted strategy is aimed at achieving a functional cure for chronic Hepatitis B.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Arbutus Biopharma has entered into several significant partnerships to advance its HBV treatments. This includes an exclusive licensing agreement and strategic partnership with Qilu Pharmaceutical for the development and commercialization of AB-729 in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. The company also collaborates with Barinthus Biotherapeutics plc to evaluate the combination treatment of AB-729 with Vaccitech’s immunotherapeutic, VTP-300. Furthermore, Arbutus has an agreement with Roivant Sciences Ltd. to launch Genevant Sciences Ltd., focusing on RNA-based therapeutics.
Technological Innovations
Arbutus Biopharma has developed advanced delivery technologies, such as lipid nanoparticle (LNP) and ligand conjugate delivery, which play a crucial role in its RNA-based therapeutics. The company's LNP technology is also utilized by Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in ONPATTRO, the first FDA-approved application of this technology. Through a license agreement, Arbutus benefits from royalty entitlements to Alnylam’s global net sales of ONPATTRO.