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Halia Therapeutics Unveils Promising Alzheimer’s Research at AAIC 2026 Conference

Halia Therapeutics Showcases Innovative Alzheimer's Research at AAIC 2026

Introduction
The Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) 2026, held from July 12 to 15, was a hub for groundbreaking research in dementia and Alzheimer's prevention. Among the notable contributions was Halia Therapeutics, which presented two essential posters highlighting their promising compound, HT-4253, intended for Alzheimer's prevention in APOE4 carriers.

The Significance of HT-4253
Halia Therapeutics aims to combat Alzheimer's disease, a condition that affects millions worldwide, especially targeting individuals who are genetically predisposed to the illness. Their research revolves around the LRRK2 inhibitor, HT-4253, which has shown a potential to lower neuroinflammation and tau phosphorylation—two key pathological features of Alzheimer’s disease. Preclinical studies conducted by the research team indicate that HT-4253 can effectively engage with LRRK2, thus restoring microglial function, which is often compromised in Alzheimer's patients.

Details of the Posters Presented
1. HT-4253 and Neuroinflammation
The first poster detailed how HT-4253 acts on human cell-based models, illustrating its capability to inhibit both LRRK2 autophosphorylation and Rab10 phosphorylation. Furthermore, it successfully reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion in iPSC-derived microglia and decreased tau phosphorylation in iPSC-derived neurons. Restoration of phagocytic function was also achieved in microglia that were previously exhausted, underscoring its multifaceted impact on neuroinflammation.

2. Phase 2a Biomarker Trial Design
The second poster outlined an innovative Phase 2a trial targeting pre-symptomatic APOE4 carriers identified through population-scale genomic analysis in the UAE. With an encouraging Phase 1 safety profile, Halia plans to screen cognitively normal APOE4 carriers using C2N Diagnostics' PrecivityAD2™ test, which detects elevated Alzheimer's biomarkers. Participants will engage in a 48-week study administering HT-4253 once daily, allowing researchers to assess changes in blood-based biomarkers and, subsequently, the potential to alter the disease onset and progression.

Understanding the LRRK2-RAB10 Pathway
Halia's research is rooted in the concept of genetic resilience. It has been observed that certain APOE4 carriers possess a RAB10 variant that impedes their development of Alzheimer's. HT-4253 aims to replicate this natural protection by inhibiting LRRK2, a critical regulator in the RAB10 pathway, which may mitigate the detrimental effects linked to Alzheimer's pathology, including chronic neuroinflammation and tau-related trauma.

Company Background
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Lehi, Utah, Halia Therapeutics represents a beacon of hope in the field of genetic resilience. Their exploration does not merely stop at HT-4253; the company plans to target the RAB10 pathway extensively through their wider pipeline, which investigates both upstream and downstream mechanisms affecting neuroinflammation and other chronic conditions, such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion
Halia Therapeutics' presentations at AAIC 2026 mark a significant advancement in our understanding of Alzheimer's prevention strategies, particularly for high-risk groups. As research evolves, the potential for HT-4253 to delay or prevent Alzheimer's in genetically predisposed populations inspires optimism in the fight against this debilitating disease.

Contact Information
For more information, reach out to:

- Investor Relations: Leigh Salvo, New Street Investor Relations
- Media Contact: Taylor Avei, Head of Business Development, Halia Therapeutics