On July 23, 2019 OnKure, Inc., the leader in discovery and development of selective histone deacetylase inhibitors, reported that it entered into an exclusive license and option agreement with Massachusetts-based KDAc Therapeutics, Inc. to support the continued development of KDAc’s selective histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) inhibitor program (Press release, OnKure, JUL 23, 2019, View Source [SID1234537680]).

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The collaboration will focus on the continued advancement of KDAc’s lead candidate, KDAc-0001 (or OKI-422), which is licensed from the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are a class of anti-cancer agents that play important roles in epigenetic and non-histone protein regulation, including death, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in cancer cells. OKI-422 is designed to enhance the therapeutic benefit of targeted anti-cancer agents, including anti-checkpoint therapies through restoration of antigen presentation in genetically defined cancers driven by histone acetyl transferase (HAT) loss of function.

"KDAc’s experienced team and collaborative efforts resulted in the development of a very unique asset," said Tony Piscopio, Ph.D., Co-founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of OnKure. Piscopio added, "We are looking forward to adding KDAc-0001 to our portfolio of first in class and best in class drug candidates."

"OnKure’s experience and proven track record in epigenetic drug development synergize with KDAc’s insights in HDAC biology and discovery of highly selective inhibitors," said Edward Holson, Ph.D., Founder, Director and Chief Scientific Officer of KDAc.