Cereno Scientific has announced that its lead drug candidate, CS1, has received Orphan Medicinal Product Designation (OMPD) in the European Union for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). This designation, highlighted in a recent BioStock article featuring an interview with Cereno's CEO Sten R. Sörensen, provides the company with significant benefits as it continues to develop innovative treatments for rare cardiovascular diseases.
CS1: A Novel Approach to PAH Treatment
CS1 is a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor that functions as an epigenetic modulator. It exhibits pressure-reducing, reverse-remodeling, anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and anti-thrombotic properties. These multifaceted actions make CS1 a promising candidate for addressing the complex pathophysiology of PAH, a rare and life-threatening disease characterized by high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.
Ongoing Phase II Trial and Clinical Insights
Currently, CS1 is undergoing a Phase II clinical trial to assess its safety, tolerability, and exploratory efficacy in patients with PAH. Patient recruitment for this trial concluded on July 1, 2024, and results are expected in Q3 2024. The trial also incorporates Abbott's CardioMEMS HF System to provide detailed hemodynamic monitoring. Initial findings from the Phase II trial have suggested potential clinical benefits of CS1 in PAH patients, although these preliminary results are not a guarantee of final trial outcomes.
Expanded Access Program
Since January 2024, the FDA's Expanded Access Program has allowed patients with severe PAH, who lack alternative treatment options, to access CS1. This program underscores the urgent need for new therapies in PAH and the potential of CS1 to address this unmet need.
Cereno Scientific's Broader Pipeline
Cereno Scientific is also advancing other drug candidates, including CS014, an HDAC inhibitor in Phase I development for arterial and venous thrombosis prevention. CS014 is designed to prevent thrombosis without increasing the risk of bleeding. Additionally, CS585, an oral, highly potent, and selective IP receptor agonist, is in preclinical development for potential use in thrombosis prevention and pulmonary hypertension.
