Atisama Therapeutics reported that its experimental drug RB042 has progressed to multiple ascending dose cohorts in a phase 1 clinical trial and appointed Bernard Coulie as chair of its board of directors.
The Australian biotechnology company said RB042 has demonstrated safety and tolerability in three of four single ascending dose cohorts completed to date. The first multiple ascending dose cohort has been initiated, with higher-dose cohorts expected to report results in the second half of 2026.
RB042 is an inhaled splice-switching oligonucleotide targeting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The phase 1 study is evaluating the drug in healthy volunteers and healthy smokers across single and multiple ascending dose cohorts.
Dr. Ed Tucker, chief medical and development officer, said safety and tolerability data across the three single ascending dose cohorts supported advancement to multiple ascending dose testing. The company said higher-dose cohorts may provide insights into target engagement to inform future development.
Coulie currently serves as president and chief executive of Pliant Therapeutics (PLRX) and holds board positions at several biotechnology companies. His background includes senior executive roles at Johnson & Johnson and Actogenix, with experience in pulmonary disease development.
The appointment comes as Atisama, formerly known as Rage Bio, advances its lead clinical program. The company is developing splice-switching oligonucleotide therapies for inflammatory diseases, with RB042 designed to target the Receptor for Advanced Glycation End-products, which the company describes as a driver of inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease affects approximately 400 million people globally and ranks as the third leading cause of death, according to the company. The condition represents a significant unmet medical need, particularly for the estimated 70% of patients who are non-eosinophilic and lack targeted therapeutic options.