#USA #Philadelphia #IFLI #Verismo Therapeutics #CELESTIAL-301

Verismo Therapeutics Takes a Step Forward in Follicular Lymphoma Treatment

Verismo Therapeutics, a clinical-stage CAR T cell therapy company, has announced a pivotal milestone in its ongoing efforts to provide innovative treatment options for patients with follicular lymphoma (FL). The company successfully treated its first patient in the CELESTIAL-301 trial, marking a significant advancement in the development of its SynKIR™-310 therapeutic platform. This trial not only emphasizes Verismo's commitment to addressing the pressing needs of FL patients but also highlights the strengthening collaboration with the Institute for Follicular Lymphoma Innovation (IFLI).

The CELESTIAL-301 Trial Overview

The CELESTIAL-301 trial is a multicenter Phase 1 clinical study focusing on the safety and preliminary efficacy of SynKIR™-310 in patients with relapsed or refractory B cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas, including follicular lymphoma. This initiative aims to enroll participants who have either had prior CAR T therapy or are being treated for the first time. The structure of this trial includes two distinct cohorts, featuring a dose escalation and an expansion cohort that will utilize the recommended Phase 2 dose.

Dr. Bryan Kim, co-founder and CEO of Verismo Therapeutics, stated, "The treatment of the first FL patient in CELESTIAL-301 is an important milestone in the development of a CD19-directed KIR-CAR therapy and showcases the strength of our partnership with IFLI. Their commitment and expertise are invaluable in our journey to advance SynKIR™-310 for patients who urgently require more treatment options."

SynKIR™-310 and its Development

SynKIR™-310 represents an innovative approach, combining Verismo’s proprietary KIR-CAR platform with a newly developed CD19 binder, licensed exclusively from the University of Pennsylvania. The KIR-CAR technology aims to enhance T cell persistence, addressing one of the significant challenges in treating FL and related B cell malignancies. With promising preclinical study results suggesting a potential reduction in relapse rates, SynKIR™-310 strives to offer patients renewed hope during their treatment journey.

The forward-thinking design of the trial further elucidates Verismo's role in pushing the envelope regarding next-generation cell therapies in oncological treatment. Michel Azoulay, MD, MBA, and Chief Medical Officer at IFLI, expressed pride in the collaboration with Verismo, stating, "Treating the first FL patient in CELESTIAL-301 is an essential step toward delivering next-generation cell therapies to this underserved patient population."

Financial Backing and Future Directions

In January 2025, Verismo Therapeuitcs announced a strategic investment from IFLI of up to $4.05 million, dedicated to supporting the SynKIR™-310 FL program. This financial support will enable the expansion of clinical sites focused on enrolling more FL patients, further bolstering the study's scope and impact.

The Institute for Follicular Lymphoma Innovation (IFLI) aims to advance research and treatment options for patients suffering from FL. As a global, non-profit private foundation, IFLI plays a critical role in orchestrating collaborations and data-sharing initiatives, driving progress in the understanding and treatment of this cancer.

Conclusion

With promising advancements in the fight against follicular lymphoma, Verismo Therapeutics, alongside IFLI, is poised to make a significant impact. The first successful treatment of a patient in the CELESTIAL-301 trial represents not just a triumph for Verismo but also a beacon of hope for patients battling this challenging condition. The collaboration is set to flourish, contributing to a brighter future where innovative therapies can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life. As further developments unfold within the trial, stakeholders eagerly await the potential breakthroughs that may emerge from this pioneering research.