EsoCap AG

The Swiss-based, privately funded EsoCap AG pioneers the first and only system administering drugs for long-lasting local oesophageal therapy, meeting a major unmet medical need. Around 370 million people are affected by oesophageal diseases annually. The oesophagus is challenging as swallowed drugs pass through in seconds, impairing the effectiveness of local treatment. The lead compound ESO-101 for treating eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is ready to enter Phase IIb/III. ESO-101, a topical steroid for first-line EoE treatment, that has been shown to reduce inflammation due to prolonged, targeted 15-minute mucosal contact. - The Technology - EsoCap’s system centers on a capsule with coiled mucoadhesive film adhering to the oesophageal wall, releasing medication over time. MRI studies in healthy volunteers showed the film stays over 15 minutes, confirming effectiveness. - ESO-101 phase IIb/III ready - EsoCap successfully completed a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled Phase II study with ESO-101 in EoE, a chronic inflammatory disease, showing significant peak eosinophil reduction (p=0.0318). - Market Potential - The EoE market is forecast to reach USD 6.7bn in 2034 (USD 5bn in the US). ESO-101 is positioned as the only globally approved chronic first-line EoE treatment administered once daily with ESO-101’s user-friendly system. - Future Applications - EsoCap’s platform can deliver various drugs, including small molecules, biologics, and RNA. Future applications may target GERD, Barrett's oesophagus, and oesophageal cancer, addressing major unmet needs. - Business Strategy - ESO-101, designated an Orphan Drug by the FDA for EoE, is backed by robust patents in major markets including the U.S., Europe, Japan, Canada, and Mexico. With a skilled team and infrastructure, EsoCap plans to use Phase II data to partner with a leading biopharma company.