Akasi Pharma is developing novel, non-opioid therapeutics targeting the somatostatin receptor 4 (SSTR4) for chronic pain management. Their lead candidate, AP-1001, is derived from marine peptides and aims to provide a safer and more effective alternative for conditions like diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.
Funding
$526.1K raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Peripheral neuropathic pain, particularly diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP), is a debilitating condition affecting millions globally. Current treatment options are often insufficient, with less than half of patients experiencing adequate relief, leading to a significant unmet medical need for effective, non-opioid therapeutics.
Solution
Akasi Pharma is developing novel, non-opioid therapeutics targeting the somatostatin receptor 4 (SSTR4), a validated pathway for pain modulation. Inspired by the potent and selective peptide activators found in marine cone snails, the company's lead candidate, AP-1001, is undergoing lead optimization. This approach aims to provide a new class of pain relief for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions like DPNP, offering a safer and more effective alternative to existing treatments.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes patients suffering from diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain and other forms of peripheral neuropathic pain, as well as healthcare providers seeking advanced therapeutic options for pain management.
Features
- Development of selective somatostatin receptor 4 (SSTR4) agonists for pain management.
- Lead candidate AP-1001 is derived from naturally occurring marine peptides with high potency and selectivity.
- Focus on non-opioid therapeutics to address the risks associated with traditional pain medications.
- Preclinical lead optimization phase for AP-1001.
- Target indication includes diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP).
- Projected first-in-human trials in 2028.