Intrinsic Medicine, led by CEO Alex Martinez, is advancing the development of human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) drugs to address gut-immune-brain axis disorders. The company's focus is on conditions like Parkinson's disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with both programs entering Phase 2 trials.
Targeting Parkinson's Disease and IBS with HMOs
Intrinsic Medicine plans to initiate a Phase 2 trial of its lead candidate, OM002, in Parkinson's disease patients in the first quarter of next year. Parkinson's patients often experience constipation as an early symptom, which can interfere with other treatments. The trial will focus on idiopathic Parkinson's patients with constipation and associated dysbiosis. According to Martinez, the study will explore whether modulating the microbiome can improve patient metabolism. The drug may also be used in conjunction with existing Parkinson's medications to enhance their efficacy.
Martinez, who has personally experienced IBS, emphasizes the importance of evaluating drugs in the context of the human experience. He notes that his personal health challenges have fueled his commitment to helping others through Intrinsic Medicine's work.
Leveraging HMOs for Therapeutic Potential
HMOs, prebiotic compounds found in human milk, are well-known for their benefits in infants. Intrinsic Medicine is exploring their therapeutic potential in adults, utilizing synthetic HMOs to develop a novel class of drugs. These compounds are attractive due to their low toxicity and cost-effectiveness.
Strategic Adaptation in a Challenging Market
Faced with a difficult biotech fundraising environment, Intrinsic Medicine has chosen to conduct clinical trials in Australia, where government support helps to extend R&D resources. Martinez emphasized the need to adapt to the evolving macro environment.
The Growing Field of Microbiome Therapeutics
Intrinsic Medicine's work aligns with the growing interest in microbiome-based therapies. Following the FDA's approval of two microbiome-based drugs in 2022, large pharmaceutical companies are increasingly exploring opportunities in this area, according to IQVIA. Over a dozen U.S. trials are currently underway studying HMOs, according to STAT News.
The success of companies like Intrinsic Medicine in clinical trials will be crucial in determining the future of microbiome therapeutics. As Martinez stated, "This is not an easy industry, especially when you're trying to do something different."
