WARRINGTON, PA — The biotech firm Windtree Therapeutics (NasdaqCM: WINT) this week announced the renewal of its scientific collaboration with Taiwan’s Chang Gung University. The partnership aims to further research on SERCA2a, a crucial target in Windtree’s cardiovascular portfolio.
The collaboration involves Windtree’s lead product candidate, istaroxime, and next-generation compounds known as SERCA2a activators. Istaroxime works by facilitating myocardial relaxation through the activation of the SERCA2a calcium pump on the sarcoplasmic reticulum, enhancing calcium reuptake from the cytoplasm. This activity is particularly significant as decreased SERCA2a activity is often observed in heart failure, and disordered calcium handling can contribute to cardiac arrhythmias.
Windtree believes that activating SERCA2a could represent a breakthrough in heart failure treatment. The company’s SERCA2a activators are currently in the preclinical stage of development and could potentially be administered intravenously or orally to outpatients with chronic heart failure.
“We are pleased to utilize this scientific collaboration to further support the characterization of the potential benefits of SERCA2a activation in cardiovascular disease and support the advancement of the next generation assets in our portfolio,” said Craig Fraser, Windtree’s President and Chief Executive Officer.
Arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, can affect the heart’s pumping function. Patients with heart failure and cardiomyopathy are at risk for arrhythmias, which can impair the heart’s ability to fill with blood and reduce cardiac output to the body.
In addition to the collaboration, Windtree is conducting a Phase 2 SEISMiC Extension Study of istaroxime in patients with early cardiogenic shock, a serious condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood and oxygen to vital organs. Results from the study are expected in mid-2024.
As the search for effective treatments for heart failure continues, Windtree’s renewed collaboration with Chang Gung University represents a promising step forward in advancing research and potential treatments for this life-threatening condition.
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