Results further corroborate the potential of the company’s MKK4 inhibitor to combat liver disease by restoring the liver’s natural, almost unlimited capacity to regenerate itself. In various in-vivo models, the candidate led to the inhibition of apoptosis and triggered anti-steatotic effects. Moreover, three intravenous administrations of the candidate before, during and after 80% resection of pig liver led to a significantly increased regenerative capacity of the remnant organ. Start of phase-I trials is planned by end of this year.
MKK4 was discovered as a key regulator of liver regeneration by the company’s co-founder Prof. Zender during his time at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) in Braunschweig and the Hannover Medical School (MHH), and is protected by respective IP. Ascenion GmbH, technology transfer partner of both institutes, has supported the project from the start.
For further information see HepaRegeniX’ press release