UCB's CDP6038 antibody drug candidate targeting IL-6 has achieved a key milestone as the first subjects have been dosed in its phase-1 'first in human' study.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is one of several cytokines involved in the inflammatory process. CDP6038 is thus part of UCB's long-term commitment to the field of immunology and, in pre-clinical studies, has already shown potential in a number of auto-immune diseases.

"CDP6038 is an exciting programme because it represents an opportunity for a next generation of anti-IL-6 biologic therapeutics," said Dr Melanie Lee, executive vice-president UCB, president UCB NewMedicines. "The molecule's design includes unique aspects that could translate into important patient benefits."

CDP6038 is the first new compound to enter phase-I of clinical development since UCB NewMedicines, UCB's discovery research through to clinical proof of concept organisation, was formed earlier this year.

UCB, Brussels, Belgium is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the research, development and commercialization of innovative medicines with a focus on the fields of central nervous system and immunology disorders.