ERS Journal7 Dec 2022 07:27
https://erj.ersjournals.com/content/60/suppl_66/2955
Inhaled NXP002 attenuates LPS-induced inflammatory and fibrotic mediator production in the rat lung
Abstract
Introduction: Oral tranilast has been shown to attenuate fibrosis clinically but has limited use due to low bioavailability and systemic side effects. NXP002, a new salt form of tranilast, is a potential novel inhaled treatment for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). These studies assess the distribution, tolerability and efficacy of NXP002 in the rat.
Methods: NXP002 was administered by inhalation (Cirrus 2) to Sprague Dawley rats at target lung deposited doses of 0.1, 0.3 and 1 mg/rat. NXP002 (10 mg/kg) was also dosed orally. Inhaled Fluticasone propionate (FP, target 0.3 mg/rat) acted as a positive control. Animals were then challenged with aerosolized LPS (1 mg/mL).
Animals were culled 4 h post LPS challenge and blood samples taken. Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) was obtained, centrifuged and the supernatant collected for bioanalysis, cell counting and mediator determination. NXP002 levels in plasma and lung ****genate were determined.
Results: Inhaled NXP002 was well tolerated, with no inflammatory response observed. Dose-dependent increases of NXP002 in lung tissue and BAL were observed, equivalent to or higher than following oral administration despite lower plasma levels.
Inhaled NXP002 resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in LPS-induced BAL cell count, which was less than that seen following oral delivery. Despite this, inhaled delivery resulted in a greater reduction in LPS-induced BAL mediators, including MCP-1 and TGFß.
Conclusions: This study demonstrates that inhaled NXP002 is well tolerated. Inhaled delivery has a superior effect on fibrosis related mediators whilst having a reduced systemic exposure than oral dosing.