Genervon Shares Alzheimer’s Gene List Linked to Its GM6 Treatment

Genervon Biopharmaceuticals recently shared a previously confidential list of 84 genes linked to Alzheimer’s disease which are modulated by their investigational treatment GM6.

The move to make the list public was based on a wish to encourage more neurological scientists to investigate broader, multi-target approaches to treat diseases such as Alzheimer’s and ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

The list was shared with fellow researchers at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference Jan. 9-12 in San Francisco and is available as a poster on the F1000Research website.

Genervon’s therapy candidate GM6 is the result of a focused search of master regulators of embryonic development. The protein factor, which constitutes the active site of a larger protein called human motoneuronotrophic factor (MNTF), exists naturally in the body. Genervon’s studies show that the small protein can cross the blood-brain barrier.

The company explored the protein for multiple neurological diseases in addition to Alzheimer’s. Genervon has also shared lists of genes related to Parkinson’s disease and ALS.

The factor controls numerous genes in the development of the nervous system, but is also involved in monitoring distress signals and coordinating responses to restore homeostasis, according to the company. Preclinical research also suggests that the compound has neuroprotective properties, regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptosis properties.

More specifically, research has shown that GM6 binds to insulin receptors, without altering insulin signaling. This suggests that the molecule binds to another spot at the receptors.

Early clinical trials of GM6 in ALS, Parkinson’s disease, and ischemic stroke demonstrated that the treatment is safe. According to the company, the treatment, delivered by injection, has resulted in few to no side effects.

Winston Ko, Genervon’s CEO and chairman of its board of directors, is convinced that most clinical trials in Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological conditions have failed since traditional drug development approaches focus on single targets. In his view, such approaches are not suitable for complex conditions such as Alzheimer’s.

Genervon’s release of the gene data is linked to its search for partnership opportunities, including licensing and clinical trial cooperative agreements.