Boehringer Ingelheim Starts Phase IIa Trial for IPF Antibody

Boehringer Ingelheim has initiated a phase IIa clinical trial to evaluate BI 765423, a monoclonal antibody targeting interleukin-11 (IL-11), for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The study is part of the company’s ongoing research focus on fibrotic lung diseases and aims to assess the compound’s clinical safety and efficacy in patients with IPF.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic progressive lung disease marked by irreversible scarring of lung tissue, leading to declining lung capacity and reduced oxygen exchange. The disease is associated with high morbidity and mortality, with limited treatment options for IPF currently available. Existing therapies can slow disease progression but do not reverse fibrosis or restore lung function, leaving a significant unmet medical need.

BI 765423 is designed to bind selectively to IL-11, a cytokine implicated in the development and progression of fibrosis. By blocking IL-11 signaling, the antibody is intended to interrupt fibrosis pathways that contribute to lung tissue scarring. Preclinical studies have shown that inhibition of IL-11 can reduce fibrotic activity and support restoration of normal tissue structure in affected organs, including the lungs.

The phase IIa study follows completion of phase I clinical trials in healthy volunteers, where BI 765423 demonstrated an acceptable safety and tolerability profile across multiple dose levels. The current trial will evaluate the antibody in patients with IPF to better understand its effects on disease biology and lung function markers, as well as to further characterise its safety in the target population.

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The asset was acquired from Enleofen, along with associated intellectual property licensed from Singapore Health Services and the National University of Singapore. The trial reflects Boehringer Ingelheim’s continued investment in pulmonary fibrosis research and its broader strategy to expand treatment options in areas with limited therapeutic progress.