Devonian Health Group has reported additional molecular data from its STAM mouse model study, reinforcing the therapeutic potential of Thykamine in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).
The preclinical study evaluated the effects of orally administered Thykamine at doses of 0.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg once daily for three weeks.
Earlier results demonstrated significant reductions in liver inflammation, fibrosis and disease progression.
The results
The newly reported gene expression analysis provides molecular confirmation of these effects, identifying dose-dependent down-regulation across 29 genes linked to inflammation and fibrosis in the liver.
Key fibrosis-related genes modulated by Thykamine included CCN1, CCN2, COL1A1, COL1A2, COL5A2, JAG1, MMP2, MMP13, SERPINE1, SERPINE2, SNAI1 and TGFBR1, supporting observed reductions in collagen deposition and α-SMA expression.
In parallel, inflammation-related genes such as CCL2, CCR2, IFNG and MMO8, along with genes implicated in both inflammatory and fibrotic pathways (COL3A1, COL6A1, FN1, TGFB1, TIMP1, MMP14, TNF, IL10 and TLR4), were significantly down-regulated.
At the highest dose, multiple genes demonstrated reductions approaching or exceeding 80-90% compared with placebo-treated animals.
Gene expression analysis also revealed regional differences between caudal and lateral liver lobes, suggesting targeted molecular activity across the diseased organ.
Statistical evaluation and PCR analyses were conducted by Dr Louis Flamand (Université Laval) and Dr John Sampalis (McGill University), providing robust scientific validation for the findings.
Dr André P. Boulet, CEO of Devonian Health, said: "These results provide molecular confirmation of Thykamine’s anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects, reinforcing its potential to target underlying MASH pathology and prevent disease progression."
"By demonstrating consistent effects at both histological and gene-expression levels, Thykamine strengthens its positioning for hepatic indications alongside dermatology and inflammatory bowel diseases."
The study highlights Thykamine’s multi-target mode of action, supporting further exploration across fibroinflammatory conditions.
Full gene expression results will be included in the upcoming scientific publication of the STAM MASH preclinical study, which is expected to provide additional insight for pharmaceutical developers and translational researchers focused on liver disease therapeutics.