Sirnaomics Unveils New Mechanism of siRNA for Fat Reduction in Cosmetic Dermatology Journal

HONG KONG, GERMANTOWN, Md., and SUZHOU, China, Sept. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sirnaomics Ltd. (Stock Code: 2257) has announced a significant breakthrough in collaboration with Dr. Mark Nestor’s team from the Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Miami, Florida. The joint research has led to the publication of a novel mechanism of action for their siRNA therapeutics, highlighting a substantial reduction of adipose tissue in preclinical animal models. The study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, lays the groundwork for Sirnaomics' RNAi-based therapeutic program aimed at localized fat reduction.

The study scrutinized the efficacy of STP705, an injectable siRNA encapsulated within histidine-lysine polypeptide (HKP) nanoparticles. These nanoparticles target transforming growth factor β1 (TGF- β1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which are critical mediators in adipocyte differentiation and fat retention. The research included in vitro experiments on mouse preadipocytes and in vivo trials using Diet Induced Obese (DIO) mice and Yucatan minipigs.

Key findings revealed that STP705 significantly reduced the expression of TGF-β1 and COX-2, resulting in a marked decrease in adipocyte volume and lipid content without notable adverse systemic effects. In DIO mice, the HKP-siRNA complex showed precise localization to the injected adipose tissue, maintaining significant gene silencing and detectable siRNA levels for up to 14 days post-administration. Data from minipigs demonstrated a substantial reduction in subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness, which was sustained for up to 56 days post-administration. These outcomes support the use of targeted-siRNA therapy for localized fat reduction, presenting a potential minimally invasive alternative to current fat reduction methods.

Mark S. Nestor, M.D., Ph.D., a globally recognized expert in clinical research within dermatology and aesthetics, is the senior author of this publication. Dr. Nestor, who is also a Voluntary Professor at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine and Director of the Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research and the Center for Cosmetic Enhancement, commented, "The results of the pre-clinical studies clearly indicate the significant potential of STP705 as a safe and effective method for reducing localized fat accumulation, setting the stage for the clinical pathway for this indication."

Dr. Patrick Lu, founder, Chairman, and CEO of Sirnaomics, added, "The latest publication highlights that our leading drug candidate, STP705, has demonstrated a novel mechanism of action by specifically silencing TGF-β1 and COX-2 in the subdermal adipose tissue, leading to localized fat reduction. The preclinical studies not only confirm its safety and tolerability but also its preliminary efficacy in inducing adipocyte apoptosis and tissue remodeling, suggesting it as a safer alternative or adjunct to existing fat reduction therapies."

Sirnaomics is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in RNA therapeutics, focusing on the discovery and development of innovative drugs for medical needs and large market opportunities. It is the first clinical-stage RNA therapeutics company with a strong presence in both Asia and the United States. Leveraging proprietary delivery technologies such as Polypeptide Nanoparticle Formulation and the second generation of GalNAc conjugation, Sirnaomics has established a robust pipeline of drug candidates. The company is at the forefront of advancing RNAi therapeutics for oncology applications, with successful clinical programs for STP705 (Phase IIa, IIb) and STP707 (Phase I). The ongoing Phase I study of STP122G represents the first drug candidate using GalAhead™ technology to enter clinical development, showing promising therapeutic efficacy and safety.