Athira Pharma Reveals Preclinical Data on Fosgonimeton's Neuroprotective Mechanism at AAIC 2024

Athira Pharma, Inc., a biopharmaceutical firm engaged in developing small molecules to enhance neuronal health and counter neurodegeneration, has recently unveiled novel preclinical data on fosgonimeton at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) 2024 in Philadelphia. These findings accentuate the therapeutic potential of fosgonimeton in treating Alzheimer's disease.

Kevin Church, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of Athira, remarked on the promising nature of the data presented. He emphasized that previous studies had already indicated fosgonimeton's ability to protect neurons by reducing inflammation, enhancing mitochondrial function, activating survival pathways, and lowering pTau levels. The new data further elucidate how fosgonimeton influences key pathological proteins in Alzheimer's models. Notably, fosgonimeton demonstrated neuroprotection against amyloid-β-induced toxicity in primary neurons, even in combination with the drug lecanemab. In certain conditions, this combination resulted in higher levels of neuroprotection.

Mark Litton, Ph.D., President and CEO of Athira, highlighted the significance of these findings. He pointed out that fosgonimeton effectively mitigated amyloid-β-induced autophagic impairments in primary cortical neurons. This has implications for reducing pTau pathology in Alzheimer’s disease. These preclinical results support Athira’s strategy of targeting the neurotrophic HGF system as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s and provide deeper insights into the multifaceted effects of fosgonimeton on Alzheimer’s pathology. The company is optimistic about translating these findings into clinical benefits.

The AAIC 2024 featured presentations on fosgonimeton’s effects. One presentation, led by Sherif Reda, Ph.D., showcased fosgonimeton’s ability to counter amyloid-β-induced autophagic disruptions, a vital process for clearing pathological proteins like pTau. Another presentation by Robert W. Taylor, Ph.D., discussed fosgonimeton's neuroprotective effects against amyloid-β toxicity, both alone and in combination with lecanemab. The combination therapy showed potential for enhanced neuroprotection, warranting further investigation.

Fosgonimeton is a pioneering small-molecule drug candidate administered subcutaneously once daily. It aims to protect and repair neuronal networks, offering disease-modifying potential for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson’s, and dementia with Lewy bodies.

Athira’s Phase 2/3 LIFT-AD clinical trial is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the efficacy of fosgonimeton in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease. The trial involves approximately 315 patients and aims to report topline results by the end of the third quarter of 2024. The primary endpoint is the Global Statistical Test (GST), combining results from cognition and function assessments. Secondary and exploratory endpoints include changes in plasma biomarkers related to neurodegeneration, protein pathology, and neuroinflammation.

Athira Pharma, based near Seattle, focuses on enhancing neuronal health and slowing neurodegeneration through its pipeline of therapeutic candidates. The company's flagship candidate, fosgonimeton, is under evaluation for treating mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease in the ongoing LIFT-AD trial. Athira aims to change the trajectory of neurological diseases by advancing its drug candidates that modulate the neurotrophic HGF system.

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