PepGen Inc. is set to release preliminary data in mid-2024 from its Phase II CONNECT1-EDO51 trial, evaluating PGN-EDO51 as a potential treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The trial, conducted in Canada, focuses on patients amenable to exon 51 skipping therapy.
PGN-EDO51: Targeting the Root Cause of DMD
PGN-EDO51 leverages PepGen's proprietary Enhanced Delivery Oligonucleotide (EDO) technology. This therapeutic oligonucleotide is designed to address the fundamental genetic defect underlying DMD, a condition primarily affecting males and characterized by progressive muscle weakness due to mutations in the dystrophin gene. Dystrophin is crucial for maintaining healthy muscle function, and its absence leads to loss of ambulation, upper body function, cardiac issues, and respiratory difficulties.
The CONNECT1-EDO51 trial is a Phase II multiple ascending dose study involving approximately 10 male patients, aged 8 years and older, with DMD who are amenable to an exon 51 skipping approach. The preliminary data will encompass initial safety assessments, the extent of exon 51 skipping achieved, and the resulting dystrophin protein production following administration of the 5 mg/kg dose of PGN-EDO51.
Broader Clinical Development Program
In addition to CONNECT1-EDO51, PepGen is planning a Phase II multinational, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multiple ascending dose study, named CONNECT2-EDO51, to further evaluate PGN-EDO51 in DMD patients amenable to exon 51 skipping.
PepGen's pipeline also includes PGN-EDODM1, an investigational candidate for myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), also known as Steinert's disease. DM1 is characterized by myotonia, muscle weakness, and cardiac and respiratory abnormalities, affecting an estimated 40,000 people in the U.S. and over 74,000 in Europe. PGN-EDODM1 is currently in a Phase I single ascending dose study (FREEDOM-DM1) in adult patients with DM1 across the U.S., Canada, and the UK, with data anticipated this year. The FREEDOM-DM1 study is designed to enroll approximately 24 adult patients.
Financial Position
As of September 30, 2023, PepGen reported cash and cash equivalents of $129.5 million, providing a solid financial foundation for its ongoing clinical programs.
