Coiled Therapeutics Tested New AO-252 Formulation

The clinical trial is testing a lipid-based softgel version of the drug AO-252 in two patient cohorts.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Cancer

A close-up macro view of a single amber-colored softgel capsule placed on a clean stainless steel surface in a clinical setting.
Coiled Therapeutics has launched two clinical trial cohorts to test the efficacy and absorption predictability of a new lipid-based softgel formulation of AO-252. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Coiled Therapeutics has enrolled patients into two new cohorts to test a reformulated, lipid-based softgel version of its AO-252 drug. The treatment is designed to block the TACC3 protein and improve the consistency of drug absorption.

Why it matters

The company developed this reformulation to enhance absorption predictability and reduce variability in drug levels compared to previous tablet-based dosing. Such improvements are critical for determining the efficacy of treatments targeting protein expression.

The study tests dosing levels of 120mg twice-daily and 160mg once-daily. Previous tablet trials reported clinical benefit rates of 80% for twice-daily administration and 40% for once-daily use.

The players

Coiled Therapeutics

This pharmaceutical company specializes in developing targeted cancer therapies that inhibit specific proteins.

The details

Coiled Therapeutics is investigating whether a lipid-based softgel delivery system improves the performance of AO-252. The goal is to provide a more reliable therapeutic experience for patients than the earlier tablet versions provided.

Timeline

  1. Dosing for up to 30 patients is planned by the end of 2026.

  2. Safety and pharmacokinetic data are expected by the end of 2026.

The Big Picture

This study advances the ongoing TACC3 protein inhibition drug research program by refining delivery mechanics. This trial marks an evolution in the drug delivery methods currently being explored within the broader TACC3 protein inhibition drug research program.

The shift to a lipid-based softgel may lead to more predictable dosing regimens if clinical goals are met. Patients involved in future phases may see refined treatment options as the company prepares for larger trials focused on ovarian and prostate cancer.

The takeaway

Reformulating existing drug candidates to improve absorption is a common strategy to maximize the therapeutic potential of promising molecules. These early-stage cohorts provide essential data that will guide the design of future large-scale oncology studies.

Further reading

For more information on clinical advancements, visit the Cancer section.

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