SLx-4090 is an enterocyte-specific microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) inhibitor. Dyslipidemia is a condition where abnormal levels of lipids are present in the bloodstream.
In the study, subjects received single oral doses of either SLx-4090 or placebo. Nine dose levels were included and subjects were monitored for adverse events. The initial phase I trial indicated that SLx-4090 was well tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported, and demonstrated a significant impact on lowering triglyceride levels compared to placebo.
“Consistent with our preclinical results, no drug was detected in the plasma at doses up to 800mg and no adverse events occurred that were distinguishable from placebo. This is particularly notable, as it has historically been difficult to design an MTP inhibitor that acts selectively in the gastrointestinal tract with no adverse impact on liver or liver function,” noted Dr William Prince, chief development officer at Surface Logix.
“Based on the results of this study, we have advanced SLx-4090 into a phase Ib repeat-dose study, which will be completed by December, 2006,” said Jim Mahoney, president and CEO of Surface Logix. “We will commence phase IIa studies directed at patients with dyslipidemia complicated by high triglyceride levels early in 2007.”
Surface Logix is also exploring the use of SLx-4090 in other metabolic disorders, including obesity and diabetes.