RiboX Clears FDA Hurdle for First In Vivo Circular RNA CAR-T Therapy

RXIM002 bypasses the traditional, labor-intensive manufacturing required by conventional CAR-T therapies. By delivering circular RNA directly to T cells within the patient's body, the treatment enables the in situ generation of functional CAR-T cells. This approach aims to achieve deep B-cell depletion, potentially triggering an immune reset and long-term drug-free remission for patients struggling with B-cell-driven autoimmune conditions.

The FDA’s decision follows a review of data from investigator-initiated trials conducted in China, where the therapy demonstrated safety and early efficacy. Based on these findings, regulators permitted an accelerated dose-titration scheme and the use of a subcutaneous formulation. This development could shift the treatment paradigm toward outpatient administration, significantly increasing patient access compared to current hospital-based cell therapies.

Weiyi Zhang, CEO of RiboX Therapeutics, described the clearance as a pivotal moment for the field of circular RNA medicine. The company plans to initiate the Phase 1 POPULUS-1 trial, focusing initially on patients with relapsed or refractory immune thrombocytopenia. This study will evaluate the safety and pharmacodynamics of the therapy, testing its ability to deplete pathogenic B cells while preserving broader immune competence.