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MetaShape Pharma, a Swiss biotech company, is developing a revolutionary approach to combat ageing and its associated conditions by restoring NAD+ levels in the body.
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a crucial coenzyme found in every cell. It acts like the fuel that powers essential functions like metabolism, DNA repair, and immune response. However, as we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, leading to cellular exhaustion and dysfunction. This decline is linked to a variety of age-related problems, from high cholesterol to cognitive decline to neurodegenerative diseases.
MetaShape's strategy focuses on inhibiting an enzyme called purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP). PNP limits the body's capacity to synthesize NAD+. By inhibiting PNP, MetaShape aims to prevent the degradation of NAD+ precursors and then plan to supplement with these precursors, effectively restoring NAD+ levels to a youthful state.
The company's lead compound, MS 001, is a selective and potent PNP inhibitor designed to specifically target pathways that degrade NAD+ precursors. Importantly, MS 001 also preserves other essential cellular functions. This targeted approach aims to deliver sustained NAD+ elevation in critical tissues like the brain, muscles, and blood – areas often most affected by cellular exhaustion. Early preclinical studies in animals are encouraging. MS 001 has shown promising results in restoring NAD+ levels, significantly reducing LDL cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
MetaShape acknowledges the vast potential of their technology. However, their initial focus prioritizes well-defined and readily approvable pathways. The first target: lowering LDL cholesterol in patients who cannot tolerate statin medications. This established path could pave the way for future exploration in areas like preventing cognitive decline and treating neurodegenerative diseases.
MetaShape hopes to secure their first approval within three years. The company plans to initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial in about a year, focusing on different dosage levels and their impact on cholesterol levels. If successful, they will move to a Phase 2 trial with a clear and measurable endpoint – percentage reduction of LDL cholesterol.
With a successful Series A funding round underway, MetaShape Pharma is poised to make significant strides in the fight against aging. Their innovative approach to restoring NAD+ levels offers a ray of hope for a healthier, longer life.
