Danish pharmaceutical company LEO Pharma A/S on Friday announced positive topline results from its phase 2b clinical trial of temtokibart (LEO 138559), an investigational IL-22RA1 antagonist for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis.

The randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial met its primary endpoint, demonstrating significant improvement in Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) scores at Week 16 for the three highest doses.

Temtokibart was generally well-tolerated, with adverse events largely mild to moderate, non-serious and not considered treatment related.

The monoclonal antibody targets the IL-22RA1 receptor to inhibit IL-22 cytokine activity, which is elevated in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Temtokibart was developed through a strategic research alliance formed in 2015 between LEO Pharma and immunology company argenx SE (Euronext Brussels:ARGX) (Nasdaq:ARGX), with LEO Pharma holding exclusive development and commercialisation rights.

LEO Pharma is currently reviewing the full trial data and plans to submit detailed results for scientific presentation and publication.