Beyond Type 2 immunity: the multimodal therapeutic potential of SM17 | LATSS 2026

Speaker: Shawn Leung (SinoMab BioScience Limited) SM17 is a first in class humanized IgG4 antibody targeting IL‑17RB, conceived for asthma but now recognized to have broader immunological and antifibrotic potential. It was discovered and humanized in a collaboration between LifeArc and Dr Andrew McKenzie at MRC LMB, and LifeArc subsequently licensed to SinoMab, which converted the antibody into an IgG4 format and designated it SM17 for further development and clinical advancement. Preclinical studies demonstrated SM17’s potential across multiple inflammatory and fibrotic diseases, including atopic dermatitis (AD), CRSwNP, IPF, and IBD. In preclinical AD models, SM17 exhibited a differentiated mechanism of action compared with other alarmin‑targeted therapies, with suppression of endothelin‑1, periostin, and IL‑4 in lesional skin. In a Phase 1b clinical study in moderate to severe AD, SM17 demonstrated efficacy (NRS4 up to 91%, EASI75 75%, IGA 0/1 41%) with no drug‑related serious adverse events. LifeArc is supporting SinoMab in their effort to find a global development partner for SM17. This talk was recorded at the LifeArc Translational Science Summit 2026. ------------------------------------- LifeArc is a self-funded medical research organisation with one clear purpose – transforming the lives of people living with rare diseases and drug-resistant infections. We aim to deliver this by conducting and funding pioneering research, and working with partners to accelerate the translation of scientific breakthroughs into new tests and treatments. Our vision is a world where people living with rare diseases and drug-resistant infections can access effective, life-changing treatments faster. Find out more at lifearc.org