Athira Pharma, Inc. announced publication of research highlighting the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of ATH-1105 in preclinical models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The original research article, "ATH-1105, a small-molecule positive modulator of the neurotrophic HGF system, is neuroprotective, preserves neuromotor function, and extends survival in preclinical models of ALS," authored by Berthiaume, A., and Reda, S., et al., was published in the peer-reviewed journal, Frontiers in Neuroscience. ATH-1105 is a next-generation, orally administered small molecule drug candidate designed to enhance the neurotrophic hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) system.

Key findings highlighted in the publication include: ATH-1105 enhances neurotrophic HGF system signaling and protects primary neuron cultures from various insults relevant to ALS; ATH-1105 treatment reduced astrocyte reactivity in spinal motor neuron-astrocyte co-cultures and preserved neuromuscular junction integrity in spinal motor neuron-muscle co-cultures following exposure to toxic levels of glutamate, believed to be a key driver of ALS pathology; In a TDP-43 mouse model of ALS, ATH-1105 treatment significantly preserved body weight, reduced motor and nerve function decline over time, decreased plasma biomarkers of inflammation and neurodegeneration, prevented axonal degeneration and TDP-43 pathology in peripheral nerves, and ultimately extended survival.