By Fineline Cube 
Shanghai-based Rona Therapeutics Inc., a developer of siRNA medicines, has announced that it has received Investigational New Drug (IND) approval from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for its RN1871. This siRNA drug targets angiotensinogen (AGT) and is designed to treat hypertension by silencing AGT mRNA expression in the liver.
Mechanism of Action
RN1871 is engineered to silence AGT mRNA expression in the liver, thereby inhibiting the production of a key precursor protein in the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS). By targeting this critical pathway in blood pressure regulation, RN1871 aims to provide long-lasting blood pressure control. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its potential to offer a novel therapeutic option for the over 1.5 billion people affected by hypertension globally.
Clinical Development and Future Outlook
With IND approval secured, Rona Therapeutics is set to initiate clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of RN1871 in patients with hypertension. This development highlights the company’s commitment to leveraging siRNA technology to address significant unmet medical needs in cardiovascular health.-Fineline Info & Tech