Quince Therapeutics Develops Inhaled Rapamycin for Lung Diseases

Quince Therapeutics is developing its lead candidate, LAM-001, as a platform technology for mTOR-driven lung diseases, using an inhaled delivery method to limit systemic toxicity. The company designed the dry powder formulation to avoid side effects tied to oral rapamycin.

"What we've created in this inhaled form, is a manner of delivering this directly to the pulmonary tissues at a tiny fraction of the oral dose, 1/20th of it. We are seeing very low systemic levels, and thus far quite a nice safety profile, which is allowing us to treat these patients where it's really needed," said Brigette Roberts, CEO of Quince Therapeutics, during the Cantor Global Healthcare Conference.

Mechanics of Targeted Delivery

The approach relies on high local drug concentrations achieved through pulmonary delivery. Using a dry powder inhaler, LAM-001 requires a lower dosage than oral versions. According to company data, a 100 microgram dose of LAM-001 produces systemic blood levels below 1 nanogram per mL. Oral rapamycin typically generates systemic concentrations between 5 and 15 nanograms per mL.

This lower systemic exposure aims to curb adverse effects associated with mTOR inhibitors, including immunosuppression and metabolic issues, which often restrict the use of oral rapamycin in chronic lung conditions.

Corporate Development and Funding

Quince Therapeutics has expanded operations to support its clinical pipeline. In May 2027, the company completed a reverse merger and secured $150 million in private investment in public equity (PIPE) financing to fund its research and development.

Clinical Implications for Lung Care

The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway regulates cellular growth and survival. Dysregulation of this pathway contributes to several pulmonary disorders, making localized drug delivery a target for reducing systemic side effects.