CytoDyn Inc. has appointed Dr. Melissa Palmer as Lead Consultant in Hepatology to drive the company's research and development strategy for leronlimab in treating liver conditions, including MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis) and liver fibrosis. This move follows promising initial results from preclinical studies with SMC Laboratories, which indicated fibrosis reversal with leronlimab.
Follow-Up Studies with SMC Laboratories
Building on the initial findings, CytoDyn has commissioned SMC Laboratories to conduct two follow-up studies. These studies aim to confirm and extend the observation of fibrosis reversal seen in the initial study concluded in September 2024. Results from these studies are expected in early 2025. The investigations will evaluate leronlimab both as a standalone treatment and in combination with other therapies, including resmetirom (the only approved treatment for MASH) and a GLP-1 agonist. These treatments will be tested on an increased number of mice, utilizing both a proprietary STAM model of MASH that includes T2DM, and a second model of liver fibrosis induced by CCL4 toxicity, independent of fat deposition.
Dr. Palmer's Expertise
Dr. Palmer brings over three decades of research experience to CytoDyn. She has held leadership positions at several biotech and pharmaceutical companies, including serving as Chief Medical Officer of Gannex/Ascletis and Head of Liver Disease at Takeda Pharmaceutical Company. She has also consulted with over 60 biotech and pharmaceutical companies since 1991 and previously served as interim Chief Medical Officer of CytoDyn. Her extensive work includes numerous clinical trials in MASH and other liver diseases, with over 100 publications, abstracts, manuscripts, books, and book chapters to her name.
Leronlimab and CCR5
Leronlimab is an investigational humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody (mAb) designed to bind to C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5), a protein on the surface of certain immune system cells. CCR5 is believed to play a role in numerous disease processes, and leronlimab is being studied for oncology and inflammation, as well as other potential indications, including HIV and MASH.
Leadership Commentary
"As we continue to capitalize on our momentum and push forward the path of scientific discovery here at CytoDyn, we are pleased to welcome Dr. Palmer to the team," said Dr. Jacob Lalezari, CEO. "Dr. Palmer’s robust research and consulting background, and past familiarity with CytoDyn, will provide the tailored expertise we need to maximize opportunities to pursue breakthroughs in new treatment paths for MASH and liver fibrosis."
Dr. Palmer added, "This is an exciting time in liver health research, as scientific innovation paves the way for improved treatments for conditions like MASH and liver fibrosis. I look forward to collaborating with the CytoDyn team to advance clinical evaluations of leronlimab, including the studies in motion, and explore new treatments that have the potential to truly transform patient outcomes."
