#China #Chengdu #BioAge #HitGen #BGE-102

HitGen Inc. and BioAge Labs Begin Phase 1 Clinical Study for BGE-102

HitGen Inc., a company listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, recently made headlines by congratulating their partner, BioAge Labs, on the initiation of a Phase 1 clinical trial for BGE-102, an innovative NLRP3 inhibitor. This marks a critical milestone in their collaboration that focuses on tackling significant health issues associated with aging and metabolic diseases.

BGE-102 is designed to penetrate the blood-brain barrier effectively and targets the NLRP3 protein, a significant contributor to inflammation associated with various age-related diseases. The inhibitor stems from a hit compound identified via HitGen’s advanced DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology, which is recognized for accelerating drug development.

Innovative Development of BGE-102

The collaboration between HitGen and BioAge began with the identification of promising hit compounds in 2021. This led to ongoing research resulting in BGE-102, which is not just structurally novel but also showcases high potency. NLRP3 has recently been recognized as a pivotal target for therapies addressing metabolic disorders like obesity, as well as other diseases related to aging, including neurodegenerative and cardiovascular conditions.

In a joint publication in early 2024, HitGen and BioAge shared insights regarding their research outcomes, reinforcing their productive partnership. This collaboration has also led to several joint patent filings for the NLRP3 inhibitors identified through their DEL screening process. Both parties are committed to continuing this type of collaborative work, aiming for further drug lead discovery across various novel therapeutic targets utilizing DEL technology.

Acknowledgment from Leadership

Dr. Jin Li, the CEO of HitGen, expressed pride in the progress achieved, highlighting that the initiation of clinical studies for BGE-102 not only accentuates the capabilities of HitGen’s DEL platform but also embodies the essence of their partnership.

In agreement, Kristen Fortney, CEO of BioAge, pointed out that the collaboration has harnessed cutting-edge technologies to uncover distinct NLRP3 inhibitors that possess both unique binding properties and robust brain-penetrating abilities. This advancement not only signifies a key clinical milestone but also emphasizes the potential improvements BGE-102 could offer for the treatment of metabolic diseases.

The Future of Drug Discovery

HitGen stands out globally, being a leading entity in DEL technology application within early-stage drug discovery. With a library comprising over 1.2 trillion small molecules, the efficiency yielded by its screening process positions HitGen favorably within the drug discovery landscape. They provide vital support for many organizations globally engaged in drug discovery initiatives.

Located in Chengdu, China, HitGen continually enhances its technology platforms, which also now include approaches for nucleic acid-based therapeutics and targeted protein degradation. Their upcoming DEL+AI+Automated DMTA molecular optimization platform promises to bolster the drug optimization and discovery processes further.

On the other hand, BioAge Labs, located in Emeryville, California, is poised to leverage the insights acquired from human aging biology to forward-thinking treatment candidates aimed at metabolic diseases. With additional programs in development targeting aging pathways, BioAge is determined to make a meaningful impact within the biotechnology field.

In conclusion, the initiation of Phase 1 clinical trials for BGE-102 illustrates an exciting stage in biopharmaceuticals, showcasing how targeted innovations and strategic collaborations can lead to groundbreaking change in treatment options for complex, age-related health challenges. Both HitGen and BioAge are set to remain leaders at the intersection of biotechnology and medical advancement.