Arrivo Bio Launches Major Depressive Disorder Phase 2b Trial with SIRT6 Activator

A new chapter in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) is being written with the commencement of a Phase 2b clinical trial for a novel drug candidate. The trial, dubbed SP-624-202, marks a significant advancement in the pharmaceutical industry's approach to MDD, focusing on an epigenetic mechanism.

Arrivo BioVentures has initiated the trial, which will involve 450 participants diagnosed with MDD. The primary aim is to evaluate the efficacy of SP-624, a SIRT6 activator, in comparison to a placebo. This compound is believed to offer a new angle in the management of depressive symptoms in adults.

The effectiveness of SP-624 will be gauged through changes in scores on the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), a widely recognized tool for measuring the severity of depression. With a substantial participant pool, the study will also delve into additional endpoints and biomarkers, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the drug's impact.

SIRT6, the target of SP-624, is a crucial enzyme involved in various biological processes, including gene expression regulation, mitochondrial function, and DNA repair. It has been implicated in the management of aging-related diseases, neurodegenerative conditions, diabetes, obesity, and now, depression. Arrivo is keen on exploring the multifaceted therapeutic potential of SP-624 beyond its current application.

Dr. Joel Raskin, Chief Medical Advisor at Arrivo, expressed enthusiasm about the study's initiation, highlighting the unmet need for effective treatments for MDD that are free from severe side effects. The study is expected to bolster the existing data on SP-624, which holds the promise of revolutionizing depression treatment.

Arrivo's dedication to pioneering research in MDD is unwavering, with the company eager to unveil further findings from the SP-624-202 trial. The organization, based in Morrisville, N.C., is driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a commitment to addressing significant medical challenges. Collaborating with a network of investors and pharmaceutical entities, Arrivo is on a mission to develop groundbreaking solutions for patients worldwide.