Satellos Bioscience Inc. (TSX: MSCL) (OTCQB: MSCLF) has announced the dosing of the first participant in its Phase 1 clinical study of SAT-3247, a novel oral small molecule drug designed to regenerate skeletal muscle in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and other muscle degenerative conditions. This marks Satellos' transition into a clinical-stage company.
SAT-3247 is designed to target AAK1, aiming to restore muscle repair and regeneration processes impaired in DMD, independent of dystrophin production. The Phase 1 trial is structured in two parts to evaluate the drug's safety and pharmacological profile.
Phase 1 Trial Design
The Phase 1 clinical trial consists of two components. The first component involves 72 healthy volunteers in a blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled study. This part of the trial will assess the safety and pharmacokinetic properties of SAT-3247 through single-ascending dose (SAD) cohorts, multiple-ascending dose (MAD) cohorts, and a food effect dose cohort. Initial safety and pharmacokinetic data from this component are expected in Q4 2024.
The second component, anticipated to commence in late Q4 2024 or early Q1 2025, will enroll 10 adult volunteers with genetically confirmed DMD. This 28-day, open-label, single-dose cohort will further evaluate safety and pharmacokinetic properties in patients, as well as explore potential pharmacodynamic markers.
SAT-3247: A Novel Approach to DMD Treatment
SAT-3247 is a proprietary, oral small molecule drug developed by Satellos to address the loss of skeletal muscle in DMD and other degenerative conditions. The drug is designed to work independently of dystrophin and regardless of exon mutation status, offering a potential treatment option for a broad range of DMD patients.
Frank Gleeson, Co-founder and CEO of Satellos, stated, "We are excited to announce the dosing of the first participants in our Phase 1 clinical trial of SAT-3247, transforming Satellos into a clinical stage company. This milestone marks a significant step in our commitment to developing innovative therapies to regenerate muscle for those living with Duchenne and other muscle degenerative or injury conditions."
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: An Unmet Need
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is an inherited disease resulting from mutations in the dystrophin gene, leading to impaired muscle repair and regeneration. SAT-3247 aims to restore these processes by regulating a dystrophin-independent pathway, potentially increasing muscle function. This approach could complement existing therapies focused on restoring dystrophin production.
