Soligenix, a biopharmaceutical company specializing in rare disease treatments, is developing SGX302, an innovative therapy for mild-to-moderate psoriasis that utilizes photodynamic light therapy and synthetic hypericin. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition affecting approximately 125 million people globally, with more than 8 million cases in the United States. The disease causes skin inflammation, thick discolored plaques, and can significantly impact patients' quality of life, potentially leading to associated health complications such as cardiovascular issues, arthritis, and mental health challenges.
The company's new treatment, SGX302, works by applying an ointment to affected areas and activating it with visible light. Synthetic hypericin accumulates in T-cells and, when activated, generates oxygen radicals that eliminate targeted T-cells responsible for the autoimmune response. Recent phase 2a clinical studies demonstrated promising results. Patients tolerated the therapy well, with no drug-related adverse events reported. The Psoriasis Activity and Severity Index (PASI) score showed a mean reduction of approximately 50% over an 18-week treatment period.
Christopher J. Schaber, PhD, president and CEO of Soligenix, highlighted the significant market potential, noting that the global psoriasis treatment market was valued at approximately $15 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $40 billion by 2027. The treatment builds upon the company's previous success with HyBryte™ in targeting malignant T-cells during cutaneous T-cell lymphoma clinical trials, suggesting a promising approach for addressing psoriasis through targeted T-cell intervention. With no current cure for psoriasis, Soligenix's innovative approach represents a potentially meaningful advancement in managing this complex autoimmune skin condition, offering hope for millions of patients worldwide.
