Coya Therapeutics: COYA 302 Shows Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Parkinson's Mouse Model

Coya Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology firm, revealed the CNS anti-inflammatory properties of their biologic COYA 302 in a preclinical mouse model of Parkinson’s Disease (PD). COYA 302, administered through subcutaneous injections, significantly reduced neuroinflammation in the brain's nigrostriatal pathway, a critical area involved in motor control. This study builds upon findings that Parkinson's disease is marked by decreased regulatory T cell (Treg) function and associated neuroinflammation.

The chief business officer and incoming CEO, Arun Swaminathan, Ph.D., emphasized that COYA 302’s peripheral anti-inflammatory effects in the brain are promising not just for PD but potentially for other neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). Parkinson’s disease involves the loss of dopaminergic neurons and is exacerbated by immune dysfunction and inflammation. By enhancing Treg function, COYA 302 may offer a disease-modifying treatment for PD.

In the mouse model, COYA 302 was shown to reduce inflammation and activation of microglia, cells that, when overactive, contribute to neurodegeneration in PD. This reduction also extended to astrocytes, another type of brain cell involved in PD pathology. The findings suggest that COYA 302’s ability to modulate neuroinflammatory processes could translate into significant clinical benefits for PD patients. The company plans further studies and aims to present their findings in peer-reviewed publications.

### Parkinson’s Disease Overview

Parkinson’s disease is a prevalent movement disorder affecting about 1% of individuals over 60, with its incidence rising as the global population ages. The disease is characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to motor symptoms like bradykinesia, rigidity, and tremors, and non-motor symptoms such as cognitive decline and sleep disorders. While the exact cause is unknown, chronic neuroinflammation and immune dysfunction are seen as key contributors.

A significant aspect of PD pathology involves decreased Treg function, leading to increased inflammatory responses and oxidative stress that damage neurons. Enhancing Treg function and reducing inflammation could delay disease progression and improve outcomes for PD patients.

### About COYA 302

COYA 302 is a proprietary biologic therapy combining low-dose interleukin-2 (LD IL-2) and CTLA-4 Ig fusion protein. This combination aims to enhance Treg function and suppress inflammatory responses by targeting both Tregs and pro-inflammatory monocytes and macrophages. The therapy is being developed for various neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, AD, FTD, and PD.

Previously, COYA 302 was evaluated in a proof-of-concept study for ALS, where it showed safety, tolerability, and potential efficacy over a 48-week period. The study noted improvements in Treg function and a reduction in inflammatory biomarkers, supporting the therapy's dual immunomodulatory mechanism.

### Conclusion

Coya Therapeutics is advancing COYA 302 as a promising candidate for treating PD and other neurodegenerative diseases by harnessing Tregs to modulate immune responses. By decreasing neuroinflammation and enhancing immunosuppressive functions, COYA 302 could offer a novel approach to modifying disease progression and improving patient quality of life. The company's ongoing research and future clinical trials will further elucidate the potential of COYA 302 in treating these debilitating conditions.