Myrobalan to Present GPR17 Antagonist Data at ECTRIMS 2024

Myrobalan Therapeutics, a biotechnology firm based in Medford, Massachusetts, is focused on the development of novel oral therapies aimed at repairing brain damage and improving function in central nervous system (CNS) disorders with high unmet needs. Recently, the company unveiled promising preclinical data showcasing the efficacy of their small-molecule G protein-coupled receptor 17 (GPR17) antagonists. These findings were presented at the 40th Congress of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) held in Copenhagen, Denmark from September 17–20, 2024.

The data presented at ECTRIMS highlight the significant impact of Myrobalan’s GPR17 antagonists on the maturation of oligodendrocytes—an essential step for remyelination—when compared to controls. This was observed in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived oligodendrocytes and various mouse models of demyelination. Furthermore, treatment with a GPR17 antagonist compound led to notable remyelination in a mouse model, indicating potential therapeutic benefits for conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS).

Dr. Jing Wang, the Chief Executive Officer of Myrobalan Therapeutics, emphasized the importance of these findings for MS patients. He noted that while current disease-modifying treatments mainly target inflammatory processes, they fail to address myelin damage, which is a pivotal factor in disease progression. The data from the GPR17 program provide substantial evidence of regenerative activity in both human and animal models, including direct proof of remyelination in the brain. This bolsters the company's confidence in quickly advancing this program to clinical trials.

Myrobalan Therapeutics is now moving forward with its GPR17 antagonist program to establish its safety and efficacy in promoting remyelination in forthcoming clinical trials. The compounds developed thus far have proven to be potent, highly selective, and capable of penetrating the brain in preclinical tests.

Myrobalan Therapeutics is a preclinical stage biotechnology company dedicated to creating oral neurorestorative treatments to counteract the key pathological features underlying brain dysfunctions and CNS conditions. The company leverages extensive expertise in neurological processes like demyelination and neuroinflammation, alongside innovative drug discovery methods, to develop highly selective and brain-penetrant therapeutic candidates. These candidates are particularly suited for treating CNS conditions with significant unmet medical needs. The company's pipeline includes innovative programs focused on remyelination and anti-neuroinflammation, supported strategically by well-known institutional co-founders. Myrobalan aims to revolutionize the treatment landscape for patients with degenerative CNS conditions, providing them access to safe and effective medicines with restorative potential.

Myrobalan's mission is to transform the future of CNS disorder treatments by developing drugs that not only prevent disease progression but also restore lost function. The company's dedication to scientific innovation and patient-centric approaches positions it at the forefront of neurotherapeutic advancements.