Mibenratide (JNJ-54452840, COR-1): An Investigational Peptide for Heart Failure

1. Introduction to Mibenratide

Mibenratide, also identified by its developmental codes JNJ-54452840 and COR-1, is an investigational synthetic cyclic peptide that was evaluated for the treatment of heart failure.[1] Its therapeutic approach was particularly focused on a subset of heart failure patients characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against the beta1-adrenergic receptor (anti-β1-AR).[2] This targeted strategy aimed to address a specific pathophysiological mechanism believed to contribute to the progression of heart failure in these individuals.

The development of Mibenratide originated with Corimmun GmbH, a German biotechnology company, where it was known as COR-1.[3] Recognizing its potential, Janssen-Cilag GmbH, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, acquired Corimmun in 2012, thereby taking over the full development and global commercialization responsibilities for the compound, subsequently known as JNJ-54452840 and later Mibenratide.[3] Such acquisitions in the pharmaceutical industry are typically driven by promising preclinical or early clinical data and the perceived market potential of a novel therapeutic agent. Corimmun's focus on COR-1 as its lead compound suggests it was the central asset of the company.[3] Janssen's decision to acquire it indicates a perceived value and potential for Mibenratide to address an unmet medical need in heart failure.