Revelation Biosciences Inc. (NASDAQ: REVB) has announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for Gemini, paving the way for a Phase 1b clinical trial in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The trial, expected to commence in early 2025, will evaluate Gemini as a preconditioning treatment to improve outcomes in this patient population.
The multi-site, placebo-controlled Phase 1b study will enroll up to 40 subjects across five cohorts. The primary endpoint is to assess the safety and tolerability of a single intravenous dose of Gemini in CKD patients. Secondary and exploratory endpoints will focus on pharmacokinetics and the drug's potential to modulate the innate immune response, measured through various biomarkers.
Gemini's Mechanism of Action
Gemini is a proprietary formulation of phosphorylated hexaacyl disaccharide (PHAD), administered intravenously. It is designed to reprogram the innate immune system, reducing inflammation-related damage. Preclinical studies have suggested its potential in reducing the severity and duration of acute kidney injury (AKI) and post-surgical infections, as well as slowing the progression of CKD.
Clinical Development and Future Plans
"We are proud to receive acceptance of our IND for Gemini, marking our most important milestone to date for Revelation," said James Rolke, Chief Executive Officer of Revelation. He emphasized the company's commitment to leveraging trained immunity to improve patient outcomes.
Positive data from the Phase 1b study would enable a Phase 2 trial, aiming to reduce AKI in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and/or cardiac valve surgery. This next phase would further explore Gemini's potential across different treatment scenarios.
Financial Considerations and Company Status
While Revelation Biosciences faces potential delisting from the Nasdaq and a recent court judgment, the company maintains it has sufficient cash reserves to meet obligations without impacting its clinical programs. Analyst price targets suggest potential upside, despite the company's current financial challenges.
