The Israeli startup Emris Pharma, founded in 2023, has developed a groundbreaking therapy that prevents and treats skin toxicities associated with targeted therapies. They created a topical drug based on small molecules that addresses skin rashes induced by EGFR monoclonal antibody inhibitors used for advanced colorectal and head and neck cancers.
The cancer-targeted treatment itself relies on a substance that is an EGFR receptor inhibitor. This substance blocks EGFR activity, which is linked to cell growth. By blocking EGFR, the treatment aims to prevent the growth of cancer cells but also causes skin side effects, as the EGFR inhibitor binds to EGFR on normal skin cells.
A large majority of patients undergoing these treatments suffer from severe skin toxicities that impact their well-being. The most effective solution often involves dose reduction or interruptions in the cancer drug protocol.
Emris has therefore developed an innovative approach that locally blocks the initial trigger causing skin toxicity without interfering with cancer treatment. This solution aims to significantly improve patients' quality of life and help them adhere to their treatments.
The ointment prevents the EGFR inhibitor from binding to skin cells. This breakthrough medication is the only solution addressing the root of the rash issue, rather than merely alleviating the symptoms.
Caroline Haïat
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