Novel RIPTAC Protein Degradation Technology Enters Global Clinical Trials, Led by Hengrui Pharma in China

A novel protein degradation technology called RIPTAC (Regulated Induced Proximity TArgeting Chimeras) is advancing into clinical trials, with Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. emerging as a leading player in China's development of this next-generation therapeutic platform.

Hengrui Pharma has disclosed two patents for RIPTAC technology, with the earliest priority date filed on November 22, 2024. The patent applications, published as WO2026108978A1 and WO2026153393A1, focus on targeting the androgen receptor (AR) in prostate cancer. Industry observers believe HRS-7525, the company's AR-directed RIPTAC candidate, has entered a global clinical trial for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). The first patient in China was enrolled on July 30, 2026, with concurrent trials underway in Australia. The study plans to recruit up to 320 participants worldwide.

RIPTAC operates through a distinctive "Hold and Kill" mechanism. Unlike traditional therapies, this heterobifunctional small molecule technology forces tumor-specific target proteins and essential effector proteins into a stable ternary complex. By selectively blocking effector protein function, RIPTAC destroys cancer cells while sparing normal tissue—a precision approach that could minimize the side effects that plague conventional chemotherapy.

The field gained significant momentum in 2025 when Johnson & Johnson acquired Halda Therapeutics, founded by RIPTAC pioneer Craig Crews, in a $3.05 billion deal. The acquisition signals strong pharmaceutical industry confidence in the technology's potential, particularly for multinational corporations facing patent cliffs on existing prostate cancer treatments.

Beyond Hengrui, several Chinese pharmaceutical companies are exploring RIPTAC development, including Zhejiang Hisun Pharmaceutical Co.Ltd., Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group Company Limited., Haisco Pharmaceutical Group, Bitarwa, Jiefu Bio, and Dongyangguang. The competitive landscape suggests China is positioning itself as a major player in this emerging therapeutic modality.

For multinational pharmaceutical companies with blockbuster prostate cancer drugs facing patent expiration, RIPTAC represents a strategic opportunity to replenish their pipelines with innovative mechanisms of action. The technology's ability to selectively target cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue could redefine treatment standards in oncology.