Vasogen neuro drug cleared for clinic

VP025 is being developed to target the chronic inflammation within the brain and central nervous system that is associated with a number of neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease).

Data demonstrating the ability of VP025 to reduce levels of inflammation across the blood-brain barrier in a number of experimental models have recently been presented at major neurology conferences. In preclinical models, VP025 has been shown to improve biological correlates of memory function; reduce the established neural deficit associated with aging; and prevent detrimental effects of beta-amyloid, a major component of the plaques found in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease patients.

VP025 has also been shown experimentally to delay disease onset and prolong survival in a model of Lou Gehrig’s disease, and reduced movement abnormalities in a model of Parkinson’s disease.

The double-blind, placebo-controlled phase I clinical trial of VP025 will examine safety and tolerability of increased doses in up to 24 healthy volunteers. The trial is expected to be completed during the second quarter and, subject to successful outcomes, is expected to form the basis of an application to commence phase II clinical development in patients with neuro-inflammatory disorders.

“VP025 has the potential to provide a new way to target chronic inflammation in the brain and we are pleased with this earlier-than-expected regulatory approval to move this drug into clinical development,” commented David Elsley, president and CEO of Vasogen.