AP-1, a Multiple Sclerosis Drug Candidate

Ankar Pharma, a Spanish-Filipino startup, is working toĀ developĀ AP-1 (formerly VP3.15)Ā itsĀ premier drug candidate forĀ multiple sclerosis (MS). The pipeline drug isĀ a first-in-class small molecule with a dual mechanism of action and reported high activity in preclinical models. It currentlyĀ remainsĀ in preclinical testing.

History of AP-1

Preclinical studies have shown the compound’s potentialĀ efficacy in treating inflammatory diseases, induced artificially in murine models. AP-1 was reported to decrease MSĀ clinical symptoms (according to neurological scores) in anĀ experimental allergic encephalitis (EAE) model, an accepted model worldwide for multiple sclerosis studies, working both as a chronic preventive treatment and at the peak of the disease. According to the company, AP-1’s efficacy in EAE models was similar or better to that produced by fingolimod, the first oral drug approved for relapsing-remitting MS treatment. Preclinical results for AP-1 have been publishedĀ in scientific journals, most recently inĀ Journal of Chemical Neuroanatomy.

How AP-1 Works

The exact mode of action of AP-1Ā is not currently understood. However, inĀ in-vitro and ex-vivo studies, it was concluded that the drugĀ has a dual mechanism of action, blocking two crucial enzymes (GSK-3 and PDE7) responsible for the activation of chronic inflammatory pathways. Inflammation caused by the immune system is one of the primary causes of damage to the myelin sheath in MS. By inhibiting these enzymes, AP-1 aims to protect the nervous system by reducing inflammation. It alsoĀ is thought to promote the growth and maturation of oligodendrocytes, and to induce the remyelination of damaged nerve fibers.

Next Steps for AP-1

According to its website,Ā Ankar Pharma is actively looking for partners to bring the compound into clinical trials in healthy volunteers and MS patients.

Given the drug’s positive effects in early studies on the nervous system and its demonstrated ability to penetrate to the brain, the company is also considering AP-1 as a potential treatment of ophthalmic diseases. The optic nerves are among the first to be affected by demyelination in MS.

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