MAX BioPharma Inc. and Metaba LLC have partnered to study the effects of oxysterol drug candidates that target non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic inflammation, and atherosclerosis on metabolic processes using Metaba’s metabolomics platform technology.
 
The two companies will identify changes in metabolites induced by oxysterols that may not only further evaluate the mechanism of action for their therapeutic effects, but also identify potential biomarkers for assessment of the efficacy of the compounds or as diagnostic and prognostic tools.
 
“We are extremely excited about this important collaboration between our companies and scientists that will empower MAX BioPharma in its R&D efforts to develop novel drugs for some of the most debilitating and fatal diseases in humans, especially NASH that currently has no FDA approved therapies, IPF that is only modestly affected by the existing FDA approved drugs, and cardiovascular diseases that remain a huge problem despite the use of cholesterol lowering drugs and lifestyle changes. In addition, as we pursue our goals in developing novel drugs, it is imperative that we also find less invasive ways to assess their efficacy both in preclinical models of the diseases and in future human clinical trials,” says Farhad Parhami, President and CEO of MAX BioPharma.
 
Philip Sell, CEO of Metaba adds: “Metabolomics is a powerful research tool. It fills in the missing gap to complete the multi-omics approach to research and is widely applicable to studying diverse biological systems. Our platform can aid development efforts by helping our scientists to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of pathogenesis, disease progression, therapeutic action, adjunctive targets, and novel diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers.
 
“We are enthusiastic about our collaboration with MAX BioPharma and the value that we can add to their already impressive therapeutic development programs. Our companies synergize elegantly with the unique expertise that each brings to the table. We look forward to combining our efforts to make an impact on debilitating diseases and ultimately improving the patient experience.”