Citryll was founded by Helmuth van Es, CEO Citryll, Renato Chirivi of ModiQuest B.V., CSO Citryll and co-inventor of tACPA and ModiQuest B.V. Citryll’s antibody development program is based on the unexpected discovery of immunoglobulins with anti-inflammatory activity in immunoglobulin repertoires of rheumatoid arthritis patients. Its lead molecule CIT-013 is currently being produced by Lonza and first in man dosing is planned to take place in 2021.
Citryll, is taking a new approach to treat autoimmune and other human diseases like lupus, vasculitis, pulmonary fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis and organ damage due to sepsis, by targeting and inhibiting the source of auto-antigens and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) derived toxic molecules instead of broadly targeting inflammation or acquired immunity. The latter are the MoAs of the current medicines like anti-TNF antibodies, small molecule Jak inhibitors and antagonists of B cell biology like anti-CD20 antibodies.