- Asahi Kasei Pharma initiated a Phase I study in Japan for AK1960.
- AK1960 is a selective endothelin A receptor antagonist from Alchemedicine's HiSAP™ platform.
- In June 2022, Asahi Kasei Pharma obtained exclusive rights to AK1960.
- AK1960 targets refractory chronic kidney disease and other difficult-to-control diseases.
Phase I Study Initiation
Asahi Kasei Pharma has commenced a Phase I study in Japan for AK1960, a selective endothelin A receptor antagonist. This compound was discovered by Alchemedicine and is being developed for its potential in treating refractory chronic kidney disease and other challenging conditions.
AK1960's Unique Properties
AK1960 is a small molecule with a novel core structure derived from Alchemedicine’s HiSAP™ platform. It exhibits potent inhibition and high selectivity for the endothelin A receptor, demonstrating significant efficacy in animal models for kidney diseases.
Exclusive License Agreement
In June 2022, Asahi Kasei Pharma and Alchemedicine entered into an exclusive license agreement. This agreement grants Asahi Kasei Pharma the worldwide rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize AK1960.
Strategic Alignment
AK1960 aligns with Asahi Kasei Pharma's R&D strategy, which focuses on developing innovative drugs in fields such as immunology, severe infections, transplantation, renal diseases, and orthopedics. The development of AK1960 is expected to contribute to the long-term growth of Asahi Kasei Pharma's pharmaceuticals business.
