Minovia Therapeutics has received FDA clearance to begin a Phase Ib clinical trial of MNV-201 for the treatment of low-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). The open-label, dose-exploration trial will evaluate the safety and efficacy of different dosages of MNV-201 in individuals diagnosed with low-risk MDS, addressing a critical need for improved anemia treatments in this patient population.
Trial Design and Objectives
The primary objective of the Phase Ib trial is to determine the optimal dose of MNV-201. Researchers will also evaluate the treatment's effectiveness in improving anemia and the durability of the response. Minovia plans to enroll a minimum of three patients in each of the low, medium, and high-dose groups, with a target enrollment of up to 15 patients.
MNV-201: A Novel Therapeutic Approach
MNV-201 is a unique therapy that combines autologous hematopoietic stem cells with allogeneic mitochondria. This approach aims to enhance the function of mitochondria within the hematopoietic stem cells of patients with low-risk MDS. By improving mitochondrial function, MNV-201 has the potential to enhance the differentiation of these cells into the erythroid lineage, thereby alleviating anemia.
Preclinical Data and Safety Profile
Preclinical studies have indicated that MNV-201 can be administered safely, with a low risk of immunogenicity. These studies also suggest that the production of MNV-201 can be scaled up to meet the needs of a large patient population, making it a potentially viable treatment option for a significant number of individuals with low-risk MDS.
Management Commentary
"The FDA’s clearance of our IND marks an important achievement for Minovia, allowing us to clinically evaluate our allogeneic mitochondrial cell therapy approach and proceed with the Phase Ib clinical programme for this first-in-class allogeneic mitochondrial therapy for low-risk MDS patients," said Minovia Therapeutics CEO Natalie Yivgi Ohana. "We are pleased to have safely dosed two MDS patients enrolled in an ongoing study under the Israeli Ministry of Health. We look forward to treating additional patients under this IND, as well as to learning about the potential of MAT to improve anaemia in this patient population."
