Coiled Therapeutics Tested New Drug Formulation
The company has launched a clinical trial using a softgel version of AO-252 to improve drug absorption.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Cancer
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Coiled Therapeutics has enrolled patients into new clinical trial cohorts to test a lipid-based softgel version of its drug AO-252. This study aims to refine delivery for patients currently undergoing treatment research.
Why it matters
The reformulation is designed to stabilize drug absorption and reduce variability in systemic drug levels. Improving consistency in how patients process the medication may help maximize the drug's therapeutic potential.
The clinical trial investigates a lipid-based softgel formulation of AO-252, with cohorts receiving 120mg twice daily or 160mg once daily. Previous tablet trials demonstrated clinical benefits in 80% and 40% of patients, respectively.
The players
Coiled Therapeutics
A biotechnology company focused on developing therapies that target the TACC3 protein for conditions including ovarian and prostate cancer.
The details
The drug AO-252 works by blocking the TACC3 protein, which plays a critical role in cellular processes relevant to cancer. By utilizing a lipid-based softgel rather than a tablet, researchers intend to improve how the body absorbs the active ingredient. This approach seeks to ensure more predictable drug concentrations within the bloodstream throughout the dosing cycle.
Timeline
By the end of 2026, the company expects to have dosed up to 30 patients.
Safety and pharmacokinetic data are also expected by the end of 2026.
Health Landscape
This effort is part of a broader ongoing research program into the development of TACC3 protein inhibitors. It marks a shift from tablet-based delivery toward lipid-based softgels to address absorption limitations observed in prior studies.
Patients and their caregivers should monitor updates on the safety and efficacy of this new formulation if they are tracking TACC3-targeted therapies. Questions regarding whether these trials might influence future treatment standards are best discussed with an oncologist.
The takeaway
The study marks an attempt to improve the consistency of drug delivery by moving from tablets to lipid-based softgels. Patients interested in how these research developments relate to current standards of care should maintain a dialogue with their primary oncologist.
What happens next
Coiled Therapeutics plans to release safety and pharmacokinetic data by the end of 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest research and standard of care in the Cancer section.
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