Drug Development

There is compelling evidence that mitochondrial dysfunction may be crucial in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). SUL-238 is a novel, investigational small molecule which improves mitochondrial function in animal models. Its oral administration (partially) restores AD-associated changes in protein expression in an AD mouse model and results in a significant reduction in amyloid plaque size/accumulation, enhancement of synaptic transmission and improved memory performance. These findings indicate that modulating mitochondrial metabolism by SUL-238 may provide a promising approach for treatment of AD.

This was a single, oral ascending dose (SAD) Phase 1, first-in-human, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in healthy adults (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT06277492). Part 1 included 6 cohorts (50, 100, 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 mg orally, n=23). In part 2, pharmacokinetics (PK) of a single 1000 mg oral dose was investigated in 10 healthy adults. In Part 2B, food effect was assessed using a randomized, single oral 2000 mg dose, two-treatment, two-period, crossover design (n=20). The primary objectives were assessment of safety, tolerability, and PK. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-to-plasma concentration percentage was determined in the SAD and food effect parts.

There were no adverse effects (AEs) that precluded dose escalation, AE rates were comparable between participants receiving SUL-238 and placebo. All AEs were mild or moderate in severity. Mean t_1/2 ranged between 0.86-3.80 hours and mean T_max ranged between 0.50-1.39 hours. Under fed condition there was a 50% reduction in C_max and a 60% reduction in AUC_0-inf as compared to fasting condition. The mean CSF-to-plasma percentages at 2- and 8-hours post-dose were 21.1% and 74.2%, respectively.

In this Phase 1, first-in-human, healthy volunteer study, 50-2000 mg single oral doses of SUL-238 were safe and well-tolerated, while demonstrating a favourable PK profile, and a high CSF penetration.