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Vandria SA has started its first clinical trial for its lead compound, VNA-318, a small molecule designed to treat age-related diseases by targeting mitophagy. The trial, a Phase 1 randomized, double-blind study, involves healthy male subjects to test the safety and effectiveness of VNA-318. The compound aims to rejuvenate cells and treat diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by improving memory and cognitive function while reducing neuroinflammation and toxic protein buildup. It also enhances mitochondrial function, with pre-clinical models showing promising results.
VNA-318 is an orally available compound with a unique mechanism of action. It not only improves cognitive abilities but also has long-term benefits for neurodegenerative diseases. In addition to its positive effects on the central nervous system, it has shown safety in toxicity studies with a wide safety margin. The compound's development is backed by a US patent covering VNA-318 and other related compounds.
The trial aims to assess safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of VNA-318 in healthy volunteers, and results are expected in 2025. Klaus Dugi, CEO of Vandria, expressed excitement over this milestone, noting the compound’s potential for treating cognitive impairments and neurodegenerative diseases. MIT professor Li-Huei Tsai, part of Vandria’s advisory board, emphasized the preclinical success of VNA-318 in various disease models.
The compound’s initial target is patients with early-stage CNS disorders, particularly for conditions like Alzheimer's, where the global market is set to grow significantly in the coming years. Vandria has secured $32 million in Series A funding to support this Phase 1 trial and plans to move forward with additional trials, including a Phase 1b/2a study starting in 2026.
VNA-318 has the potential to impact a wide range of diseases beyond the CNS, including muscle, lung, and liver conditions. Vandria is preparing for further funding rounds, including a Series B, to advance its clinical development and expand its therapeutic pipeline.
