Kelun-Biotech Biopharmaceutical Co, Ltd (6990.HK) announced on Monday that with Harbour BioMed (HKEX: 02142), it has received approval from the National Medical Products Administration in China for an investigational new drug application for SKB575/HBM7575, a bispecific antibody therapy being developed to treat atopic dermatitis.

SKB575/HBM7575 is a long-acting antibody targeting thymic stromal lymphopoietin and an undisclosed antigen, designed to inhibit TSLP-mediated signalling while generating a synergistic effect through its second target. The therapy has been engineered with an extended half-life and is intended for subcutaneous administration, with preclinical data indicating the potential for dosing intervals exceeding three months.

Under the collaboration agreement, Kelun-Biotech will lead the design, global development and commercialisation of the therapy, while Harbour BioMed will participate in the investment and development of the programme and share in the agreed benefits.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting around 20% of children and up to 10% of adults globally, with existing treatments often failing to deliver sustained disease control in moderate-to-severe cases.