Key points from article :
Khondrion, a biopharmaceutical company specializing in mitochondrial disease therapies, and Amsterdam UMC have joined forces to initiate a Phase 2 clinical trial for their drug candidate, sonlicromanol. This study aims to provide relief to millions of individuals suffering from the persistent symptoms of long COVID.
Long COVID, characterized by chronic fatigue, brain fog, and post-exertional malaise, continues to impact the lives of many. While the exact cause remains elusive, emerging research suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may play a significant role. Mitochondria, often referred to as the "powerhouses of the cell," are responsible for energy production. When they malfunction, cellular energy levels decline, leading to a cascade of health issues.
Sonlicromanol, a first-in-class drug, offers a novel approach to targeting mitochondrial dysfunction. By mitigating the harmful effects of oxidative stress and inflammation, this drug has the potential to alleviate the debilitating symptoms of long COVID. The upcoming Phase 2 clinical trial will assess the safety and efficacy of sonlicromanol in patients with long COVID. If successful, this could mark a significant breakthrough in the treatment of this complex condition.
Jan Smeitink, CEO of Khondrion, highlighted that, "Sonlicromanol has already advanced to Phase 3 development for primary mitochondrial diseases, and has a unique triple-action mechanism that targets common pathways of mitochondian dysfunction.”
This collaboration between Khondrion and Amsterdam UMC marks a significant milestone in the development of effective treatments for long-COVID. By advancing the understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction and exploring novel therapeutic approaches, this research has the potential to transform the lives of countless patients.
