ARQ-234 is a fusion protein that serves as an agonist with high selectivity and potency for the CD200 receptor (CD200R). In recent preclinical and clinical studies, CD200R has been validated as a target in atopic dermatitis with evidence of durable biologic response, even after discontinuation of treatment.
CD200R activation is thought to restrain inflammatory immune responses and play a pivotal role in maintaining immune tolerance. As an immune-regulatory receptor, CD200R is an important immunological checkpoint. CD200R agonists can amplify pathways that inhibit overactive immune cells and suppress unwanted immune responses. ARQ-234 binds to CD200R, restoring immune homeostasis by inducing inhibitory signaling on immune cells that regulate inflammation.
Arcutis believes ARQ-234 offers a potential best-in-class profile for atopic dermatitis.