CohBar is developing mitochondria-based therapeutics to treat chronic and age-related diseases. The mitochondrial genome produces/encodes a number of peptides that are used to regulate metabolism and protect the cell. Exercise increases their production, while certain metabolic conditions such as diabetes and obesity, as well as aging itself, lead to a decline. Based in part on the work of co-founder Pinchas Cohen, CohBar is creating analogues of these mitochondrial-derived peptides (MDPs).
CohBar’s lead candidate, CB4211, is an analogue of MOTS-c, a MDP that can improve obesity, insulin resistance, and exercise capacity. In August 2021, topline Phase 1a/1b study results were released for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and obesity, which showed a reduction in markers for liver damage as well as lower blood glucose and weight after four weeks.
The company has an additional four MDP programs in preclinical development, the most advanced of which, CB5138-3, is targeting fibrotic diseases and is in IND-enabling activities, with the goal of initiating clinical studies in 2022.