Tiziana Life Sciences to advance TZLS-501 monoclonal antibody

Tiziana Life Sciences (TLSA) will advance its second asset, a fully human anti-IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody, TZLS-501. Tiziana will pursue non-dilutive funding strategies for the development of TZLS-501 while continuing to advance intranasal foralumab as its lead program. TZLS-501 is a fully human anti-IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody targeting both the membrane-bound and soluble forms of IL-6R. This dual mechanism of action not only blocks IL-6R signaling but also reduces circulating IL-6 cytokines, which are recognized drivers of inflammation, lung damage, and chronic fibrosis. Tiziana sees potential to develop TZLS-501 as a monotherapy, or in combination with its lead candidate, foralumab, as well as with other anti-inflammatory and anti-infective agents. Tiziana believes this an opportune time for the parallel advancement of TZLS-501. Accordingly, Tiziana will pursue development of TZLS-501, while not diverting resources or focus from ongoing clinical trials with foralumab. Excessive IL-6 signaling plays a central role in multiple diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and various cancers. By reducing both receptor-mediated signaling and circulating cytokine burden, TZLS-501 may offer therapeutic advantages in managing these acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.