Our solutions
Our team has identified novel small molecule regulators of ER stress, targeting all three UPR sensors (IRE1α, PERK, and ATF6). These compounds, ERQ-01, ERQ-02, ERQ-03, and ERQ-04, emulate the action of neurotrophic factors MANF and CDNF, offering unique cell protective benefits across multiple cell types. Our research has uncovered a groundbreaking mechanism by which MANF and CDNF modulate the UPR and ER stress, distinguishing it from the traditional method of inhibiting a single UPR sensor and pathway. These molecules hold promise as potent drug candidates for treating diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
We have demonstrated that ERQ-01, ERQ-02, ERQ-03, and ERQ-04 directly bind to UPR sensors IRE1α, PERK, and ATF6, enhancing cell survival and reducing inflammation. They exhibit neuroprotective properties in damaged mouse primary dopamine neurons, motor neurons, and protect pancreatic beta cells, without affecting healthy cells. The lead compound has shown efficacy at low nanomolar concentrations in human iPSCs-derived dopamine neurons, making it a promising candidate for Parkinson’s disease treatment. Notably, three of these compounds are already existing drugs with favorable pharmacokinetic properties and low toxicity, facilitating a swift and successful market entry following in vivo efficacy demonstration and phase II and III clinical trials.
Why use our solutions?
Simultaneously modulate the activity of all UPR sensors, distinguishing them from selective UPR pathway inhibitors and ensuring greater efficacy, especially when one of the sensors is inhibited or blocked
Achieve superior targeting of cellular receptors compared to known inhibitors. This mimics the activity of neurotrophic factors MANF and CDNF and stands as the sole physiological method for regulating ER stress and UPR
Specifically target damaged cells while sparing healthy naïve cells, ensuring minimal side effects during clinical application
Penetrate the blood-brain barrier, enabling systemic delivery for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases
Promote cell survival, have anti-inflammatory action & reduce protein aggregation. All in one package!
Existing drugs that possess excellent pharmacokinetic properties,long half-life, minimal toxicity, and rapid market entry when repurposed for new mechanisms of action and uses
Our mission
We believe that targeting the root causes of diseases, such as ER stress and UPR dysregulation, is more effective than merely addressing their symptoms. Our ER stress regulators are designed to tackle the core pathology of various ER stress- and UPR-related conditions, including diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Our approach can greatly improve the quality of life for millions of individuals suffering from chronic and debilitating illnesses, leading to a healthier future for all of us.