Combining chemistry, formulation, pharmacology, and drug development expertise to enable our first candidates heading to clinical trials
Inflammation is an integral part of the defensive mechanism of our body. Initiated by the innate immune system upon recognition of “danger signals” or endogenous signaling molecules, it is the first line of defense against pathogens, toxoids, irritants, or hyperproliferating cells (e.g., tumours). If short-term “acute inflammation” is not successfully resolved, the continuous inflammatory process (chronic inflammation) can lead to tissue or organ damage, resulting in long term disorders, as highlighted recently by pathologies associated with long-term effects of COVID-19.
Axelyf uses prodrugs of natural lipids, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), machine learning and the expertise of its team to work on important challenges in inflammatory disease areas. We aim to target acute inflammation before it progresses and to treat chronic inflammation after it has been manifested, using the safest possible interventions to ultimately improve outcomes for patients.
Inflammation
Autoimmune diseases
The World Health Organization (WHO) considers chronic diseases as the greatest threat to human health. Chronic inflammatory disorders are the leading cause of death in the world, including cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and other autoimmune disorders.
Autoimmunity is a central and fast-moving field of study in biology wherein the body's immune system, normally protective against foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. Development of an autoimmune reaction can lead to various autoimmune diseases that impact a person’s health and lifespan, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes.
A combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers, such as infections or certain foods, may play a role in triggering these acquired immune responses. While there is not yet a cure for autoimmune diseases, treatments aim to manage symptoms and suppress the overactive immune response. Understanding autoimmunity helps researchers develop better treatments and strategies to improve the quality of life for those affected by these conditions. Our goal is to use our full complement of capabilities to develop therapeutics for RA, psoriasis, and other diseases that affect the immune system.