IGC Pharma Study on CYP2C9 Polymorphism and THC Pharmacokinetics in European Society of Medicine

IGC Pharma, Inc. has announced a pivotal research publication in the European Society of Medicine Journal, focusing on the impact of CYP2C9 polymorphisms on the pharmacokinetics of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its metabolites in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. This study provides significant insights into the genetic variations that influence the metabolism of THC, potentially leading to more effective and safer treatments for AD.

The research titled “A study on CYP2C9 polymorphism in Puerto Rican Alzheimer's Patients and its role in the Pharmacokinetics of ∆-9-tetrahydrocannabinol” examines how different genetic profiles impact the processing of THC in AD patients. Conducted with a Puerto Rican population, the study tested IGC Pharma’s lead drug candidate, IGC-AD1, in a Phase 1 multiple ascending dose (MAD) trial. Key findings revealed that variations in the CYP2C9 enzyme significantly affect the half-life of THC and its active metabolite OH-THC, underscoring the necessity for personalized dosing strategies.

The choice of Puerto Rico for this study is particularly notable because the region has a higher prevalence of AD, with a rate of 12% compared to 10.7% in the continental United States. This demographic focus helps ensure a more comprehensive data collection and aims to make effective treatments more accessible to underrepresented populations.

Ram Mukunda, CEO of IGC Pharma, expressed pride in the study’s publication, highlighting the company's dedication to pioneering Alzheimer's research. He emphasized the importance of understanding genetic factors in drug metabolism for the development of safe and effective treatments, noting that this research significantly contributes to the scientific community and aligns with the company’s mission to enhance patient care and scientific innovation.

Dr. Jagadeesh S. Rao, the lead scientist behind the study, stressed the critical need for personalized medicine in treating Alzheimer’s disease. The findings indicate that THC metabolism varies significantly with different CYP2C9 polymorphisms, highlighting the importance of considering genetic profiles for dosing. Dr. Rao believes this research lays the groundwork for more tailored therapeutic approaches that could improve outcomes for AD patients.

IGC Pharma is progressing with a Phase 2 trial of IGC-AD1, a drug formulation designed to treat agitation associated with dementia caused by Alzheimer’s. IGC-AD1 acts as a partial CB1r agonist with anti-neuroinflammatory properties and inhibits inflammasomes, addressing the neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter imbalances observed in AD patients. THC, the primary psychoactive component in Cannabis and one of the active agents in IGC-AD1, is crucial to this treatment approach. This trial represents the first formal Phase 2 clinical investigation of a THC-based formulation for Alzheimer’s disease.

Beyond IGC-AD1, IGC Pharma is actively developing a robust pipeline of drug candidates targeting various aspects of Alzheimer’s pathology. The company’s innovative approach includes leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize clinical trials and enhance early detection of Alzheimer’s. Their AI projects are poised to significantly impact several areas of Alzheimer’s research, potentially transforming the treatment landscape for this debilitating disease.

IGC Pharma’s dedication to understanding genetic influences on drug metabolism and developing personalized treatment strategies underscores its commitment to addressing the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease. Through rigorous research and innovative solutions, the company aims to improve patient care and advance the treatment of Alzheimer’s on a global scale.