Sino-US liver therapy developer AusperBio has announced the initiation of the first cohort dosing in a Phase I clinical study for its AHB-137 in healthy adult subjects in New Zealand. AHB-137 is a potential best-in-class, highly potent, pan-genotypic antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) designed to target all HBV RNA, offering a new treatment approach for patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV).
Study Design and Objectives
The randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study is meticulously designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of AHB-137 in healthy subjects. Additionally, the study will provide preliminary insights into the efficacy of AHB-137 as a treatment for HBV. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of the drug’s potential benefits and safety profile.
Preclinical Results and Expectations
In preclinical study models, AHB-137 has demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing hepatitis B surface antigen compared to other agents in its class, alongside an excellent safety profile. These promising results set the stage for the Phase I clinical trial, where the focus will be on confirming these findings in a human subject population. The initiation of this trial marks a significant step forward in the development of AHB-137, bringing AusperBio closer to potentially offering a new therapeutic option for patients suffering from chronic hepatitis B.-Fineline Info & Tech
