In this episode of Beyond Biotech, host speaks with Dr. Niels Riedemann, CEO and founder of InflaRx, about the company’s pioneering work in targeting the C5a/C5aR signalling pathway to tackle severe and chronic inflammatory diseases. Dr. Riedemann shares the scientific rationale, development journey, and future potential of this first-in-class anti-inflammatory approach.

Key Points:

InflaRx is leading a targeted approach to block the C5a/C5aR pathway, aiming to curb harmful inflammation while preserving essential immunity. This precision strategy could redefine treatment options for both rare and widespread inflammatory diseases.

• From ICU to Biotech Innovation: Dr. Riedemann’s transition from surgeon and critical care physician to biotech entrepreneur was driven by a passion for translating complement system research into therapies for life-threatening and debilitating inflammatory conditions.
• The C5a/C5aR Pathway: This signalling pathway sits at a critical junction in the inflammatory cascade, amplifying immune responses and tissue damage. InflaRx’s strategy uses selective inhibitors to block harmful inflammation without disrupting essential immune functions like bacterial defence.
• Target Diseases & Unmet Need:  Current focus is on chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), both highly impactful skin diseases with limited treatment options. The approach could also extend to broader inflammatory, allergic, and potentially neurological or oncological conditions.
• Scientific Differentiation: InflaRx’s antibodies and oral inhibitors are designed to specifically target C5a or its receptor without impairing other complement system functions, avoiding heightened infection risks seen with upstream complement inhibitors.
• Development Challenges & Lessons: Regulatory navigation, trial design, and endpoint selection have been critical learning points, reinforcing the importance of statistical rigor and deep disease understanding in clinical success.
• Looking Ahead: Positive trial results in current indications could open pathways for broader applications, partnerships, and a “pipeline-in-a-drug” model, potentially transforming inflammation management worldwide.