Topical JAK Inhibitor Granted Fast Track Designation for Alopecia Areata

An investigational topical Janus Kinase (JAK) 1/3 inhibitor, ATI-502, has been granted Fast Track designation for the treatment of alopecia areata by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

ATI-502 is being investigated for alopecia areata and the more severe variants, alopecia totalis and universalis. In June 2018, the Company announced positive interim data from a Phase 2 study (AA-202 Topical) which showed that ATI-502 is absorbed through human skin and targets the genes implicated in alopecia areata. 

There is currently no treatment approved by the FDA for alopecia areata (AA). According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation ~6.8 million people in the US have or will develop AA at some point in their lives. 

“We look forward to working closely with the FDA throughout our development program with the hope of ultimately bringing this important treatment option to patients,” said Christopher Powala, Chief Regulatory & Development Officer of Aclaris. 

For more information visit Aclaristx.com.

This article originally appeared on MPR