Australian biotechnology company Kinoxis Therapeutics has been awarded a $2.5 million grant through the CUREator+ program to support its CARES-X Phase 2a clinical trial. The trial will assess the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of Kinoxis’ lead candidate, KNX100, in treating agitation associated with dementia.
The CARES-X study, conducted across eight Australian sites, recently began patient recruitment and aims to provide an alternative to existing treatments. The trial’s primary focus will be on improving agitation symptoms in those living with dementia over a four-week treatment period using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory as a key measurement tool.
“This funding accelerates the development of KNX100, bringing us closer to addressing the critical unmet need for safe and effective treatments for agitation and aggression in dementia.”
Hugh Alsop, CEO of Kinoxis Therapeutics.
Globally, 55 million people live with dementia, and agitation affects over 76% of these individuals. Current treatment options, such as the sole FDA-approved drug for Alzheimer’s-related agitation, carry an FDA-issued black box warning that it may increase the risk of death in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
Kinoxis’ KNX100 represents a novel approach, targeting specific brain systems linked to behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. The CARES-X trial has been designed with input from global dementia experts, including Professor Jeffrey Cummings and Associate Professor Michael Woodward. A dedicated carer focus group also ensures the trial addresses real-world challenges faced by caregivers and families.
The CUREator+ program, funded by the Federal Government’s Medical Research Future Fund, aims to accelerate the translation of Australian medical research into commercial outcomes. Kinoxis was selected for the grant based on its innovative approach, market potential, and the maturity of its development program.
In addition to its dementia research, Kinoxis is advancing KNX100 for other neuropsychiatric disorders, including substance use disorders, in collaboration with global partners.
