Alicaforsen
Alicaforsen is an antisense oligonucleotide targeted to down regulate the production of ICAM-1, a cell surface receptor which is involved in the process of inflammation.
In certain GI diseases, the immune system incorrectly activates inflammatory processes. Part of this activation involves increasing the levels of gene messengers (mRNA) for the production of ICAM-1; there is a correlation between the levels of ICAM-1 and the severity of inflammation.
ICAM-1 facilitates the transport of white cells from the circulation to the site of inflammation, thereby propagating the inflammatory condition. When alicaforsen binds to ICAM-1 mRNA, ICAM-1 expression is reduced. In clinical trials this has been shown to reduce levels of inflammation.
The Company’s Leadership Team has recently identified a new development opportunity for alicaforsen in the GI space which we highlight in the confidential investor deck available here. This is only available for existing investors and any new or prospective investors should contact the Company through the contacts page.
