Clinical Trials
Asahi Kasei pushes into human trials with new autoimmune drug candidate
The study is being conducted through its Japan-based pharmaceutical arm, Asahi Kasei Therapeutics Corp
- By IPP Bureau
| April 22, 2026
Asahi Kasei, the diversified global conglomerate, has launched a Phase I clinical trial for AK1940, a novel peptide-based investigational drug designed to tackle major unmet needs in autoimmune diseases.
The study is being conducted through its Japan-based pharmaceutical arm, Asahi Kasei Therapeutics Corp.
The compound, AK1940, was discovered in collaboration with PeptiDream Inc. and marks a strategic step in Asahi Kasei’s effort to expand and strengthen its drug development pipeline. The company has positioned pharmaceuticals as a key engine of long-term growth.
Preclinical development has been completed, and the first-in-human Phase I trial began on April 19, 2026 in Japan. The study will evaluate safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics following single and multiple subcutaneous doses in healthy volunteers.
AK1940 is a selective tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 1 antagonist. In preclinical models, it demonstrated strong selectivity for TNF receptor 1 and showed activity in animal studies of inflammatory disease, suggesting potential to modulate immune pathways linked to chronic inflammation.
“As we advance AK1940 into the clinic, we are reinforcing our commitment to delivering differentiated therapies while enhancing the long-term value of our pharmaceutical portfolio,” said Yasuo Nakamura, Executive Officer for Pharmaceuticals R&D at Asahi Kasei Therapeutics Corp.
“AK1940 has the potential to address significant unmet needs in autoimmune diseases, where current treatment options remain insufficient.”
