#United States #Austin #Genprex #GPX-002 #Diabetes Therapy

Genprex's Groundbreaking Diabetes Gene Therapy Presentation at ASGCT

Genprex, Inc., a clinical-stage gene therapy innovator, is gearing up to share remarkable findings on its diabetes gene therapy candidate, GPX-002, at the upcoming American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy's (ASGCT) 28th Annual Meeting. This prestigious gathering will be held from May 13 to May 17, 2025, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Ryan Confer, the President and CEO of Genprex, expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity, stating, "We are proud of the preclinical data supporting our novel gene therapy program for diabetes. Presenting at one of the premier events in cell and gene therapy validates our efforts and the potential of our diabetes program."

What is GPX-002?

GPX-002 represents a pioneering step in diabetes treatment, using gene therapy to potentially transform the landscape of how we understand and tackle this chronic condition. The therapy employs a recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) to deliver the vital Pdx1 and MafA genes directly into the pancreas. This approach aims to convert alpha cells into beta-like cells that can secrete insulin effectively, which could lead to reversing diabetes mellitus.

In mouse models, the introduction of these genes has shown promising results, with indications that normal blood glucose levels can be restored. However, the leap from preclinical trials to effective human treatments hinges on overcoming challenges related to immune response often seen with AAV therapies.

Exciting Presentation Details

The featured research will be discussed in a presentation titled, "Immune Modulation Sustains Alpha Cell Reprogramming and Mitigates Immune Responses to AAV in a Diabetic Non-Human Primate Model". The abstract, supported by Genprex, will be featured on May 16, 2025. The presenting author, Dr. Hannah Rinehardt of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, will examine how direct infusion of rAAV into the pancreatic duct can elicit immune responses in non-human primates.

Initial results are promising; one month post-infusion, non-human primates (NHPs) exhibited improved glucose tolerance and reduced reliance on insulin. The AAV6 capsid, combined with endocrine-specific promoters for Pdx1 and MafA, demonstrated significant long-term effects.

Researchers found that temporary immunosuppression methods effectively prevented major anti-viral immune responses, allowing sustained therapeutic outcomes even after immunosuppressants were discontinued. This finding could pave the way for improved gene therapy approaches that minimize the risk of immune system rejection.

The Future of Diabetes Treatment

With GPX-002 under development, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients may soon benefit from potentially curative therapies. In Type 1 diabetes, the objective is to invert alpha cells into functional beta-like cells capable of insulin production while evading immune detection. In Type 2 diabetes, where autoimmune factors do not play a role, GPX-002 is anticipated to rejuvenate and restore beta cell function effectively.

Genprex, known for its innovative and life-changing gene therapy options, remains at the forefront of research in addressing significant medical challenges. As they advance their diabetes gene therapy program, they continue to collaborate with premier academic and industrial partners.

About Genprex, Inc.

Located in Austin, Texas, Genprex, Inc. is dedicated to developing essential gene therapies for cancer and diabetes patients. Their focus is on creating therapies that make a substantial impact on patient care and health outcomes. The company utilizes groundbreaking technologies to deliver disease-fighting genes through various innovative means, including the Oncoprex Delivery System, which integrates lipid-based nanoparticles with gene-expressing plasmids.

As the ASGCT 28th Annual Meeting approaches, the spotlight will be on Genprex and their promising advancements in diabetes therapies. The implications of their findings could change how diabetes is treated in the near future, providing hope for many patients.

Those interested in following Genprex’s progress can find updates on their company website, social media platforms, or directly through their investor relations channels.