SciRhom GmbH

SciRhom GmbH is a pioneering biotech enterprise with the vision to translate advanced scientific findings into game-changing therapies for autoimmune diseases. Building on a detailed understanding of how a major cell-surface protease controls inflammation, SciRhom has worked closely with Prof. Carl Blobel of the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City (USA) to develop first-in-class humanized antibodies against iRhom2. iRhom2 controls the enzyme TACE, a key node in several disease-causing signaling pathways. Tested in vitro and in mouse models of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), these antibodies potently and selectively inhibit TACE in immune cells, thereby protecting against RA and IBD. By targeting iRhom2/TACE, the SciRhom antibodies simultaneously block several established signaling pathways that are currently targeted individually by drugs approved for autoimmune disorders, including TNF-alpha and IL-6R signaling. Superior efficacy, as demonstrated in preclinical proof-of-principle studies, and an expected favorable safety profile make anti-iRhom2 antibodies prime candidates to outperform standard of care. Four patent families secure exclusivity for anti-iRhom2 inhibitors and provide broad protection against follow-on drugs. Current leading indications in the company’s development pipeline are RA, IBD, and lupus nephritis.