We are developing MRI-1867, our licensed rationally designed, orally available, dual-action, hybrid, small molecule that is an inverse agonist of the CB1 receptor, as well as an inhibitor of the iNOS system.
To date, MRI-1867 has demonstrated numerous positive characteristics in pre-clinical animal model testing. Specifically, NIH researchers demonstrated that MRI-1867 has druggable pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic and stability properties using non-GLP in vitro and in vivo animal testing. Further, in vivo testing conducted by the NIH (and published in peer review journals) has, in relevant animal models, demonstrated successfully that, compared to a placebo, MRI-1867 has both slowed the progression of fibrosis and attenuated pre-existing fibrosis in two organs (liver and lungs) with highly potent and selective antagonism of both CB1 and iNOS. Importantly, in vivo animal studies have also demonstrated that MRI-1867 did not cross the blood brain barrier, eliminating the potential for adverse CNS side effects which can be present with other cannabinoids that bind to receptors in the brain. MRI-1867 has also exhibited sufficient bioavailability with oral delivery and supported once daily dosing. In connection with MRI-1867, pre-clinical work has been performed in the lab of Dr. George Kunos, the Scientific Director for the NIAAA and a leading researcher on the ECS with a focus on its role in certain fibrotic, inflammatory and metabolic diseases.
We are developing MRI-1867 for the treatment of SSc
We are developing MRI-1867 for the treatment of SSc. SSc is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by activation of innate and adaptive immune systems, an obliterative, proliferative vasculopathy of small blood vessels, and fibrosis of the skin and multiple internal organs. SSc can affect multiple internal organs in the body, including the lungs, heart, kidneys, joints, muscles, esophagus, stomach and intestines.
Approximately 90,000 people in the United States and Europe have SSc. The disease affects mainly adults, 80% of whom are women, with a mean age of onset of about 46 years of age in the United States. Based on these patient population characteristics, SSc has been classified as an orphan indication, which means it has no FDA-approved therapies.