Canada-based ImStar Therapeutics has announced the selection of IMS-088 as its lead drug candidate for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
IMS-088 is a novel, small-molecule drug that stems from the discovery of a new target for ALS by ImStar co-founder Dr Jean-Pierre Julien termed TANA (that is TDP-43 Associated NF-?B Activation).
IMS-088 is the first in a series of novel drugs derived from withaferin A, a natural compound isolated from the leaves of the winter cherry plant (Withania somnifera) that inhibits activation of a key inflammation pathway.
In preclinical ALS disease models, withaferin A produced substantial improvements in function and extended survival, but lacked optimal characteristics to be developed as a drug.
IMS-088 was designed by ImStar chemists to have superior drug-like properties and has been shown to be potent and safe in preclinical studies.
In conjunction with the selection of a lead compound, ImStar has filed a patent application with the US Patent and Trademark Office covering novel withanolide therapeutics.
Julien noted the company is very excited to announce the selection of IMS-088 as its lead ALS compound.
"As we continue with preclinical development next year, we hope to establish IMS-088 as a safe and effective new drug candidate for ALS," Julien added.
The company is preparing to initiate IND-enabling studies in the second half of 2014.