Daniel Vitt CEO IMMUNIC THERAPEUTICS
What is Immunic Therapeutics’ core focus?
Immunic is focused on developing oral drugs for chronic autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Our lead asset, vidofludimus calcium, is currently being tested for multiple sclerosis (MS). Can you describe the phase 2 trial results for vidofludimus calcium?
We treated 268 patients with relapsing-remitting MS, the drug significantly slowed relapses and reduced brain lesions over six months. We observed a dose-dependent reduction in neurofilament light chain (NfL), a key biomarker for neurodegeneration. The drug halved confirmed disability progression, so we continued with an open-label extension, where 254 patients were enrolled. After two years, 94.2% of patients were free of 12-week confirmed disability worsening.
Vidofludimus calcium was initially developed as a DHODH inhibitor, which is excellent for treating inflammation and reducing brain lesions and relapses. During clinical trials, we discovered it is also a potent activator of Nurr1, a target linked to neuroprotection. Our drug’s potential ability to activate Nurr1 could explain its neuroprotective effects, making it particularly exciting for treating neurodegenerative conditions.
Beyond MS, Parkinson’s disease could be a potential next step, as Nurr1 activation is highly relevant. We are exploring preclinical research opportunities in this area. Once we advance vidofludimus calcium further in MS, we may consider partnerships or clinical expansions into other CNS diseases. How significant is the potential impact of Nurr1 activation?
If our phase 3 trials confirm the disability protection we observed in phase 2, vidofludimus calcium could become a game-changer. Stopping or slowing disability progression, combined with a strong safety and tolerability profile, makes it highly attractive for both patients and doctors. Unlike existing therapies, it has no monitoring requirements and offers a safer switch option for patients who develop infections, for example on anti-CD20 therapies. This makes vidofludimus calcium a perfect complement to existing treatments.
Trevor Castor Founder, President and CEO APHIOS
Where is Aphios focusing its research in treatments for Alzheimer’s?
Our research on Alzheimer’s disease focuses on mitigating neuroinflammation – a key driver of disease progression. In aging brains, the CCR5 gene becomes increasingly active, contributing significantly to inflammation that disrupts synaptic connectivity and accelerates cognitive decline. Evidence from the HIV field, where individuals lacking CCR5 exhibit resistance to infection, underscores the receptor’s role in immune modulation.
We are repurposing maraviroc – a molecule used in HIV treatment to block CCR5 – by encapsulating it in nanoparticles. This formulation enables effective crossing of the blood-brain barrier, reducing neuroinflammation while potentially lessening the side effects, such as brain bleeding. By blocking CCR5, our strategy aims to preserve synaptic function and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. How do nanoparticles assist in drug delivery for central nervous system (CNS) disorders?
Nanoparticles offer a promising means to traverse the blood-brain barrier due to their lipid-based composition, which is very biosimilar to this barrier. Once inside, the nanoparticle can deliver its therapeutic cargo directly to the brain.
We are also looking at an active targeting mechanism, in which we enhance delivery by attaching ligands – such as sugar moieties – to the nanoparticle surface. How is Aphios exploring cannabinoids for treatment of CNS disorders?
We are investigating use of cannabinoids to rebalance the endocannabinoid system. Cannabis contains over 600 cannabinoids, each exhibiting unique biological activities. Many of these compounds have a short duration of action, limiting their utility for chronic conditions.
Our strategy involves selecting specific cannabinoids – such as CBD – and encapsulating them in nanoparticles to extend their time in the body. This sustained-release approach aims to convert an acute treatment into one suitable for chronic use.
Cannabinoids have already been approved for use in epilepsy and multiple sclerosis cases. We are looking to move into chronic applications across pain, disease and anxiety.