Pharmagene looks to treat irritable bowel syndrome
Pharmagene has commenced clinical evaluation of the lead compound, PGN1164, from its R1 programme. The compound, a 5HT2B antagonist, is in development as a novel oral product for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Pharmagene has commenced clinical evaluation of the lead compound, PGN1164, from its R1 programme. The compound, a 5HT2B antagonist, is in development as a novel oral product for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
The first Phase I study, which is being conducted by a UK CRO, is a combined single and multiple ascending dose safety/tolerance and pharmacokinetic trial.
It is generally accepted that 5HT (serotonin) plays a pivotal role in IBS, and has been implicated in the gastrointestinal hyperactivity associated with the disease. Using human tissue research techniques, Pharmagene has shown that the excitatory effects of serotonin in human colon are mediated by 5HT2B receptors. Pharmagene believes that the increase of serotonin levels in IBS patients leads to increased sensitivity of smooth muscle, inappropriate contractility and cramping, particularly by the activation of the 5HT2B receptor, and consequently believes that the use of a drug to block the 5HT2B receptor would allow 'normal' activity to be restored. Current IBS medicines have limited efficacy and in some cases significant safety concerns.
A total of 36 healthy volunteers will participate in the study, the results of which will be available later this year.