Additional test proves efficacy of Huonslab's HLB3-002

Huonslab's HLB3-002, a human genetic recombinant hyaluronidase candidate, produced meaningful results confirming its efficacy, the Korean company said Tuesday.

The candidate exhibited a similar drug diffusing effect as the subcutaneous antibody drug containing the same concentration of San Diego-based Halozyme Therapeutics' hyaluronidase enzyme.

Earlier in the year, a test confirmed the drug's efficacy, but Huonslab said it conducted an additional test to secure more accurate, trustworthy results.

Compared to other subcutaneous drugs containing the hyaluronidase enzyme manufactured under the same conditions, HLB3-002 demonstrated a similar drug diffusion effect and an efficacy equivalent to Halozyme's hyaluronidase enzyme.

Hyaluronidase is used as a drug diffusion agent that directly decomposes hyaluronic acid in the subcutaneous tissue of the human body to help with pain and swelling. It is also used to convert intravenous injection drugs into subcutaneous injections.

“We plan to apply for approval to start Phase 1 clinical trials of the candidate around the beginning of next year to gain use approvals at the end of 2025,” said Lim Chae-young, the executive director of Huonslab Bio Institute.

BY SARAH CHEA [chea.sarah@joongang.co.kr]