Denali Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:DNLI) will be advancing its DNL151 into two late-stage studies in Parkinson’s disease. The decision to do so was accelerated by safety and biomarker data from the company’s studies of its two LRRK2 molecules in Parkinson’s patients. The late-stage studies aim to address the shattering clinical decline and pathology of the disease.
The ongoing Phase 1 clinical study of DNL151 has enrolled 162 healthy volunteers all who have completed their dosing. Another Phase 1b clinical study has 25 Parkinson’s patients. This is a 28-day, multicenter, randomized, clinical trial. It is being carried out in the US and Europe, the aim being to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and various clinical endpoints following multiple oral doses of DNL151.
A Collaboration between Denali and Biogen Inc. (NASDAQ: BIIB) Will Bring On Board Deep Scientific Expertise
Biogen is a respected leader in neurodegenerative diseases. Apparently, despite Parkinson’s disease being one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, there are no known therapies for slowing its evolution.
However, a collaboration deal worth more than $2.1 billion between Denali and Biogen is likely to birth a potential therapy. According to the Chief Medical Officer or Denali, Carole Ho, Biogen has enhanced expertise and development in Parkinson’s disease. This is what the duo needs to accelerate its development plan and perhaps intensify the probability of ultimate success.
”…the deal represents an opportunity to advance the development of a potential first-in-class oral therapy that may slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease… and could enhance its portfolio for treating serious neurological and neurodegenerative diseases,” said Biogen, Michel Vounatsos.
Inhibition of LRRK2 Activity Could Slow the Advancement of Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease impairs the functioning of the lysosomal of a patient. This happens as a result of mutations in the LRRK2 gene and ends being neurodegeneration. Nonetheless, the impairment can be restored by LRRK2 inhibition, an activity that slows down the disease’s progression. The patients do not need to have genetic risks.
Meanwhile, in addition to partnering with Denali, Biogen will also be receiving an exclusive option in licensing two preclinical programs from Denali’s drug transport platform.
