Huadong Medicine and SynerK Form Strategic Alliance for siRNA Drug Development

Strategic Partnership to Develop SNK-2726

HANGZHOU — In a significant step forward in the field of biopharmaceuticals, Hangzhou Sino-US Huadong Medicine Co., Ltd. and SynerK PharmaTech (Suzhou) Co., Ltd. have launched a strategic partnership to co-develop SNK-2726, a pioneering siRNA drug aimed at treating hypertension. This collaboration highlights both companies’ commitment to advancing medical innovation and improving patient outcomes through cutting-edge research.

The Objectives of the Partnership

The partnership centers around the development of SNK-2726, which specifically targets angiotensinogen (AGT), a key factor in regulating blood pressure. Huadong Medicine has secured an exclusive option to potentially develop, register, manufacture, and commercialize SNK-2726 in Greater China, pending the execution of their option. This agreement allows both parties to leverage their strengths, with Huadong Medicine providing its extensive experience in drug development and commercialization while SynerK focuses on its proprietary siRNA technology.

Dr. Tao Lan, CEO of SynerK, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "We are very excited about the opportunity to cooperate with Huadong Medicine. The philosophy of 'scientific research-based and patient-centered' that Huadong incorporates resonates with our aim of 'changing patients' lives.'" This synergy aligns with the mission to expand the reach of their innovative therapies while ensuring that the needs of patients remain a priority.

What Is SNK-2726?

SNK-2726 represents a novel approach to managing hypertension via RNA interference. By inhibiting the production of AGT, which is primarily synthesized in the liver, the drug is designed to mitigate the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), a critical pathway involved in blood pressure regulation. The inhibition of AGT production has the potential to lead to significant and sustained reductions in blood pressure, offering a new avenue for those affected by hypertension.

Currently, SNK-2726 is in the Investigational New Drug (IND) application preparation stage, indicating that it is on the precipice of clinical trials. Preclinical studies have already shown promising results in selectively targeting AGT with lasting effects.

The Companies Behind the Drug

Huadong Medicine Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1993, Huadong Medicine has transformed into a comprehensive pharmaceutical company involved in various sectors including innovative drug research, manufacturing, and distribution. Based in Hangzhou, the company boasts a robust portfolio and strong financial performance, reporting an operational revenue of 40.624 billion yuan in 2023. Their commitment to innovative formulations and high-quality therapeutic solutions underpins their industry standing.

SynerK PharmaTech

SynerK, with operations in both the USA and China, specializes in RNA-targeted therapies and is equipped with a wealth of expertise in the field of nucleic acid drug development. The firm’s mission is to create pioneering therapies that address hard-to-treat illnesses. Their advanced GalNexus siRNA platform aims to further elevate their position in the biopharmaceutical landscape.

Looking Forward

The strategic collaboration between Huadong Medicine and SynerK stands as a beacon of hope for thousands suffering from hypertension. By combining their expertise, the two companies aim not only to expedite the development of SNK-2726 but also to explore new therapeutic frontiers in RNA interference. Their partnership is expected to yield positive impacts on patient health outcomes and contribute to the ongoing fight against chronic diseases.

As the pharmaceutical landscape evolves, collaborations such as this serve as vital catalysts for innovation, ensuring that patients receive the treatments they need while setting new industry standards for collaboration in drug development.

For further updates on SNK-2726 and other innovative treatments, stay tuned as both companies embark on this exciting journey.