E-Star BioTech Begins Phase 2 Trials of MANP for Resistant Hypertension

On February 5, 2025, E-Star BioTech, LLC, a company known for its innovative approach to developing new peptide treatments for cardiovascular, metabolic, and kidney conditions, announced a significant advancement in its research. The company has begun administering its Modified Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (MANP) to the first participant in a Phase 2 clinical trial aimed at treating Resistant Hypertension. This trial, called the BOLD-HTN study, is a crucial step forward in exploring new treatment avenues for patients who do not respond to conventional hypertension medications.

MANP, the peptide under investigation, was originally discovered by Dr. John C. Burnett Jr., who is the Director of the Cardiorenal Research Laboratory at Mayo Clinic. The partnership between E-Star BioTech and Mayo Clinic began in 2021 when they established a worldwide exclusive license to develop MANP for cardiovascular and metabolic purposes. Since then, the project has garnered $36 million through grants and initial private funding. In various Phase 1 studies involving individuals with different types of hypertension, MANP has consistently shown a commendable safety profile.

Jesse Crowne, the Chief Executive Officer of E-Star BioTech, expressed his enthusiasm about this new phase in the trial process. He emphasized the significance of dosing the first patient in this Phase 2 study, describing it as a pivotal moment that marks the commencement of a broader effort to enroll more participants throughout the year. The randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multi-center study will assess MANP's safety and effectiveness in individuals suffering from Resistant Hypertension, aiming to uncover new therapeutic pathways for these patients.

Hypertension affects approximately 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 worldwide, yet only about 21% of those suffering from the condition manage to control it effectively. This chronic condition is a leading cause of premature mortality in both developed and developing regions. E-Star BioTech's mission is to address the gap by bringing the remaining 79% of hypertension sufferers under control, ultimately reducing the global burden of early death linked to this health issue.

E-Star BioTech is focused on developing a suite of Natriuretic Peptides to target metabolic syndrome, with MANP as its primary asset currently under investigation in the Phase 2 clinical trial. The potential of MANP to provide a new solution for Resistant Hypertension is a testament to E-Star's dedication to finding innovative treatments for complex health challenges.

The Mayo Clinic, a nonprofit organization renowned for its commitment to advancing clinical practice, education, and research, is a key partner in this endeavor. Their collaboration with E-Star BioTech highlights the importance of combining expertise and resources to foster innovation in medical research and patient care. The clinic remains at the forefront of providing compassionate care and cutting-edge solutions to those in need of healing.

As the BOLD-HTN study progresses, there is optimism within the medical community that MANP could become a breakthrough treatment for those struggling with Resistant Hypertension, offering hope to millions who have not found success with existing therapies.