A drug developed from a molecule found in the venom of an Australian funnel-web spider has commenced Phase 1 human clinical trials. The trials aim to assess the safety, tolerability, and dosage of the drug, designated IB409, which is being investigated for its potential to reduce damage to the heart and brain following heart attacks and strokes. This development stems from research conducted by the University of Queensland and Infensa Bioscience.
Clinical Trial Commencement
A novel treatment, derived from a molecule found in the venom of an Australian funnel-web spider, has commenced Phase 1 human clinical trials. The trials are evaluating the safety, tolerability, and dosage of the drug, identified as IB409. The announcement regarding this development was made on Thursday by researchers in Australia.
Origin and Development of IB409
The molecule, Hi1a, was initially identified by researchers at the University of Queensland (UQ) and is derived from the venom of a funnel-web spider indigenous to Queensland's Fraser Island, also known as K’gari. Infensa Bioscience, a biotechnology company based in Brisbane, subsequently transformed Hi1a into IB409, a miniaturized peptide suitable for drug development.
Preclinical Research and Proposed Mechanism
Professor Glenn King, from UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience, reported the publication of preclinical results concerning Hi1a. Research suggests that Hi1a may reduce damage to the heart and brain during heart attacks and strokes. This is believed to occur by preventing cell death caused by oxygen deprivation. Preclinical tests, designed to mimic real-life treatment scenarios, indicated Hi1a's efficacy in protecting heart tissue.
Potential Therapeutic Implications
Professor Mark Smythe, CEO of Infensa Bioscience and a UQ researcher, noted that current pharmaceutical agents do not prevent the damage caused by heart attacks and strokes. He stated that if IB409 demonstrates safety and effectiveness in Phase 1 and subsequent clinical trials, it could potentially impact the lives of individuals globally affected by heart disease. The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute (VCCRI) is a research collaborator and funder for the project. Professor Bob Graham AO, a VCCRI researcher and Infensa co-founder, described the Phase 1 trial as a significant milestone, stating that the drug, if its performance continues as anticipated, could influence how the heart and brain are protected.