Application
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a rapidly growing liver disease affecting millions worldwide. Unlike traditional liver disease caused by excessive alcohol consumption, NASH develops in individuals with minimal or no alcohol history.
- NASH is characterized by an unhealthy buildup of fat in the liver (steatosis) that triggers inflammation and scarring (fibrosis). This progressive damage can lead to liver failure and the need for transplantation.
- Currently, there are no approved medications to treat NASH. Existing treatment strategies focus on managing risk factors like weight loss and controlling blood sugar, but these may not effectively address the underlying disease process.
Our Innovation
Our research explores a new class of treatments: indoline derivatives. These molecules hold promise for targeting the mechanisms that drive NASH development.
Among the indoline derivatives studied, AN1284 has emerged as a leading candidate. Pre-clinical studies using mice with established NASH have shown significant promise.
The research utilized a well-established mouse model that closely mimics the pathological features of human NASH, ensuring the relevance of the findings.
Advantages
- Mechanism of Action: AN1284’s potential effectiveness may stem from its ability to regulate genes involved in fat metabolism and influence a cellular pathway (AhR) known to contribute to NASH development. By addressing the root cause of fat accumulation, AN1284 offers a more targeted approach compared to traditional symptom management.
- Data-Driven Support: Studies in mice with pre-existing NASH demonstrated that AN1284 (at a low dose of 1mg/kg/day) significantly reduced both steatosis (fat accumulation) and fibrosis (scarring). These findings suggest AN1284’s potential to reverse existing damage and prevent disease progression.
- Novel Class of Treatment: AN1284 represents a groundbreaking approach in the fight against NASH. This new class of potential medications offers hope for improved patient outcomes and a brighter future for those living with this debilitating disease.
Opportunity
We are exploring investment opportunities and potential industrial collaborations to advance the development and clinical testing of our promising new NASH treatment.
