Advantage Therapeutics has established a new subsidiary, Klothea Bio, to advance research and development of Klotho protein-based therapies for age-related diseases, the company announced on November 25. The spinoff will focus exclusively on leveraging mRNA technology to boost production of Klotho, a protein known for its significant anti-aging properties.
The newly formed subsidiary has secured seed funding led by Longevitytech.fund (LTF), a venture capital fund managed by tech entrepreneur Petr Sramek that specializes in biotechnology startups focused on healthy lifespan extension.
Klotho: A Key Protein in Aging Biology
Klotho is a protein expressed primarily in the kidneys and brain that acts as a circulating hormone with numerous health benefits. Scientific research has demonstrated that Klotho levels naturally decrease with age, potentially contributing to various age-related disorders.
"Klotho is a protein possessing multiple beneficial and unique pleotropic functions by protecting organs against inflammation, oxidative stress, tumor growth, while its absence leads to age-related diseases and early death," explained Dr. Carmela Abraham, Advantage's Chief Science Officer, who has studied Klotho for over 20 years as Professor of Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics at Boston University School of Medicine.
The protein's anti-aging properties include neuroprotection, antioxidative effects, and tumor suppression. Declining Klotho levels have been linked to cognitive decline, chronic kidney disease, and cancer.
Innovative mRNA Approach to Boost Klotho Production
Klothea Bio's proprietary technology platform utilizes mRNA to enhance the body's own Klotho production. This approach aims to restore Klotho to levels typically found in younger, healthier individuals.
"As we embark on this exciting journey, we expect to demonstrate that our mRNA therapy will increase significantly the levels of Klotho to those found in young and healthy individuals and will offer the potential for longer-lasting therapeutic effects which may delay or prevent certain age-related diseases," said Jeffrey Madden, Chairman of Klothea Bio.
The company's initial research will target metabolic disease syndrome, with plans to expand therapeutic applications to cancer, Alzheimer's disease, obesity, and other age-related indications.
Strategic Investment from Longevity-Focused Fund
Petr Sramek, Managing Partner of Longevitytech.fund and newly appointed Klothea Board Member, expressed enthusiasm for the venture: "Longevitytech.fund is committed to advancing solutions that address the hallmarks of aging, and we see Klotho as a critical protein in a molecular pathway to enhance human health and longevity. By supporting Klothea Bio, we aim to enable pioneering science that holds the promise of reducing the burden of age-associated diseases."
The investment amount was not disclosed, but the funding is expected to accelerate Klothea's research and development efforts as the company prepares for future clinical trials.
Parent Company Continues Alzheimer's Focus
While Klothea Bio pursues Klotho-based therapies, parent company Advantage Therapeutics will continue its work on next-generation Alzheimer's treatments. The company's lead compound, AD04, is currently undergoing Phase 2b clinical trials in Europe and the UK.
AD04 is a subcutaneous injectable therapy that functions as an immunomodulator, potentially stimulating and regulating the immune system to reduce Alzheimer's disease pathology. Unlike treatments that target specific aspects of Alzheimer's pathology such as amyloid beta or tau, AD04 may work through multiple mechanisms to restore expression of genes in lipid metabolism, improve phagocytosis, and reduce inflammation.
Expanding the Longevity Therapeutics Landscape
The formation of Klothea Bio represents a significant addition to the growing field of longevity biotechnology. By focusing specifically on Klotho-based interventions, the company aims to address fundamental mechanisms of aging rather than merely treating symptoms of age-related diseases.
"This collaboration strengthens Klothea Bio's laser focus on developing safe and effective treatments as we prepare for our upcoming clinical trial, bringing us closer to a future where significantly extending healthy human lifespan is achievable," added Madden.
The company will operate as a subsidiary of Advantage Therapeutics, with headquarters in Miami, Florida, while leveraging the scientific expertise and resources of its parent company.
