Reason, co-founder of Repair Biotechnologies, presented at the Longevity Summit Dublin 2024, highlighting an innovative therapy aimed at reversing atherosclerosis using a fusion protein delivered via mRNA and lipid nanoparticles. The technology has shown promise in preclinical trials and could have broader applications in treating cholesterol-related diseases, potentially transforming the field of cardiovascular health and longevity.

Key Points:

• Atherosclerosis Reversal with Novel Therapy: Reason, representing Repair Biotechnologies, presented a groundbreaking therapy capable of reversing atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death globally. This therapy addresses plaque buildup in arteries, something current treatments like statins and lifestyle changes cannot effectively reverse.
• Mechanism of Action – Targeting Free Cholesterol: The therapy targets free cholesterol, which is toxic when accumulated in cells. A fusion protein, delivered using mRNA and lipid nanoparticles (similar to COVID-19 vaccines), helps break down this harmful cholesterol selectively in liver cells, where most cholesterol-related dysfunction begins.
• Preclinical Success and Future Trials: The therapy demonstrated a 17% reduction in plaque volume in just six weeks in a mouse model of atherosclerosis. The plan is to move to human trials by 2026, initially targeting a rare condition, homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, before expanding to broader atherosclerosis treatments.
• Wider Implications for Metabolic and Neurodegenerative Diseases: The approach has shown potential in treating other conditions related to cholesterol metabolism, such as type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NASH), and even certain neurodegenerative diseases, by improving cholesterol management and reducing systemic inflammation.
• Impact on Gene Therapy and Healthcare: If successful, the therapy could revolutionize gene therapy applications, lowering costs and increasing the availability of such treatments. This would not only reduce cardiovascular mortality but also provide new tools for managing age-related diseases.
• Future Directions and Clinical Goals: Repair Biotechnologies is currently raising funds to support non-human primate studies. Success in these studies could lead to regulatory approval and broader adoption of this technology for a variety of cholesterol-related conditions.