Hong Kong-based biopharmaceutical company Hepagene Therapeutics Inc. has announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted an Investigational New Drug (IND) approval for its drug candidate, HPG7233. This small-molecule thyroid hormone receptor beta (THR-β) agonist is poised for development as a treatment for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and dyslipidemia, marking a significant step in the company’s pipeline expansion.
Building a NASH Portfolio and Combination Therapies
Hepagene is actively building a portfolio of potential NASH candidates, with the strategic goal of developing combination therapies that target various mechanisms to achieve improved efficacy in treating this complex disease. The IND approval for HPG7233 adds to the company’s clinical pipeline, joining the FXR-targeted Phase II-stage lead candidate, HPG1860.
HPG7233: A Promising Second-Generation THR-β Agonist
HPG7233 is a second-generation THR-β agonist that has demonstrated high selectivity and potency during preclinical testing. The molecule has also shown a positive safety profile, making it a promising candidate for further development. As a second-generation agonist, HPG7233 is expected to offer enhanced therapeutic benefits over first-generation agents, potentially leading to more effective treatments for patients with NASH and dyslipidemia.
Conclusion
The FDA’s IND approval for HPG7233 is a validation of Hepagene’s research and development efforts in the field of NASH and related metabolic disorders. With a focus on combination therapies and a growing pipeline, Hepagene is well-positioned to contribute to the advancement of treatments for these conditions.-Fineline Info & Tech
