Crinetics Pharmaceuticals dosed the first patient in its Phase 1/2 BRAVESST 2 trial of CRN09682, the company’s inaugural nonpeptide drug conjugate (NDC). The study targets metastatic or locally advanced somatostatin receptor type 2 (SST2)‑positive neuroendocrine tumors and other SST2‑expressing solid tumors, marking the first human exposure to the NDC platform.
CRN09682 couples a high‑affinity SST2 agonist to the cytotoxic payload monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) via a cleavable linker. The design allows the drug to be taken orally, selectively internalized by tumor cells, and release the payload inside the cell while limiting systemic exposure. This milestone validates the platform’s safety and pharmacology in patients and demonstrates a potential advantage over antibody‑drug conjugates and radiopharmaceuticals in terms of manufacturability and patient convenience.
The dose marks a strategic expansion of Crinetics’ portfolio beyond its approved oral product, PALSONIFY™ (paltusotine). By moving a first‑in‑class candidate into clinical testing, the company opens a new revenue stream in the high‑growth neuroendocrine tumor market and reinforces its broader pipeline that includes late‑stage programs such as atumelnant. Crinetics’ balance sheet, with more cash than debt and a healthy current ratio, provides the runway to support continued development of the NDC platform and other GPCR‑targeted therapies.
Chief Scientific Officer Stephen Betz said, “Dosing the first patient in the Phase 1/2 study marks a major milestone for CRN09682 and our NDC platform as a whole. CRN09682 is the first clinical exploration of this new modality, which we believe has the potential to unlock a new generation of receptor‑targeted therapies to treat tumors with precision.”
Investors have responded positively: over the past six months the company’s shares have risen 40 %, and analysts maintain “Buy” ratings with price targets around $80. The enthusiasm reflects confidence in the pipeline, the innovative NDC technology, and the company’s strong financial position.
The first patient dose is a critical step toward future data on safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy. Successful outcomes could accelerate the development of CRN09682 and position Crinetics as a leader in orally administered precision oncology.
The content on BeyondSPX is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.