Longevity Biotech Aims to Unleash the Power of NAD+ Against Age-Related Diseases

Author: | Published on: November 21, 2024 | Last updated: November 21, 2024

Introduction

The pursuit of longevity and the combat against age-related diseases has gained renewed attention in the biotech industry. A key player in this emerging field is MetaShape, a clinical-stage biotech company based in Basel, Switzerland. Utilizing innovative technology, the company aims to restore nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels to mitigate conditions such as high LDL cholesterol, cognitive decline, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Understanding NAD+

NAD+ is a vital coenzyme that supports essential biological functions such as cellular metabolism, DNA repair, and immune responses. As individuals age, the levels of NAD+ naturally decline, which can lead to impaired cellular processes, cellular exhaustion, and a heightened risk of various age-related conditions.

MetaShape's Innovative Approach

MetaShape's therapeutic angle involves inhibiting purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP), an enzyme that restricts the synthesis of NAD+. The following aspects summarize their innovative direction:

• Target Conditions: Focused on age-related diseases including high cholesterol, cognitive decline, and neurodegeneration.
• Mechanism of Action: By inhibiting PNP, MetaShape intends to reduce the degradation of NAD+ precursors, thereby facilitating NAD+ restoration.
• Lead Compound: MS 001, a selective and potent inhibitor of PNP designed to elevate NAD+ levels in vital tissues.

The Role of PNP in NAD+ Synthesis

Research conducted in 2022 underscored the significance of PNP in NAD+ metabolism. Specifically, it was found that PNP degrades NAD+ precursors, which are crucial for NAD+ synthesis. As described by Dr. Thomas Mehrling, the CEO of MetaShape:

“If we inhibit PNP, we prevent the degradation, and subsequently, supplementing with precursors will enable restoration of the biological system.”

Preclinical Studies and Findings

MetaShape’s preclinical research on MS 001 has shown promising results. In animal models, the compound restored NAD+ levels to optimal states while concurrently lowering LDL cholesterol and blood glucose levels. The studies demonstrated the following:

Future Directions and Clinical Trials

MetaShape aims to refine its technology through extensive clinical trials. Their initial plan involves:

• Conducting a Phase 1 clinical trial focused on LDL cholesterol reduction, expected to commence within the coming year.
• Following successful outcomes, transitioning into Phase 2 trials targeting neurodegenerative disease prevention.
• Expanding development efforts towards a broader understanding of aging and associated pathologies.

Regulatory Perspective and Funding

MetaShape's strategy aligns with well-established drug development pathways, especially in familiar territories such as cholesterol-lowering medications. Dr. Mehrling anticipates a rapid approval process:

“We wanted to find an accepted indication where we can prove that the drug has efficacy, and expand into longevity or neurodegeneration trials from there.”

The company has successfully raised $1.1 million thus far, and is currently in the process of securing further funding through a Series A round to support its initial Phase 1 trials.

Conclusion

MetaShape's innovative focus on NAD+ restoration represents a significant advancement in the fight against age-related diseases. By targeting well-defined health issues like LDL cholesterol and neurodegeneration, the company is positioned to make meaningful contributions to longevity research and therapeutics. The results from ongoing trials will be pivotal in understanding the broader implications of NAD+ restoration for aging populations.

References

Research supporting the insights in this article can be referenced through Lifespan.io.