PureTech Launches Celea Therapeutics to Advance Phase 3 Lung Disease Drug

PureTech Health has launched a subsidiary, Celea Therapeutics, to advance the development of deupirfenidone (LYT-100), a promising Phase 3-ready drug candidate for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and other fibrotic and inflammatory lung diseases. Deupirfenidone is a deuterated form of Roche's former IPF drug Esbriet, designed to improve efficacy and reduce side effects, addressing limitations of current FDA-approved treatments Esbriet and Boehringer Ingelheim's Ofev. The drug has shown favorable safety and tolerability in Phase 2b trials, with potential to offer a significant improvement in stabilizing lung function decline in IPF patients. Celea Therapeutics is led by Dr. Sven Dethlefs, former CEO of Teva North America, who brings extensive experience in pharmaceutical commercialization and development, including the launch of other deuterated drugs such as Austedo. PureTech is pursuing third-party funding to support Celea’s progression through Phase 3 trials and potential commercialization, reflecting a strategic effort to transform respiratory disease treatment with a capital-efficient and focused approach. The company expects to engage with the FDA soon to discuss Phase 3 trial plans following successful Phase 2b results.