Helixmith Obtains Japanese Patent for 'HX109,' a Substance for Prevention and Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwanju] Helixmith announced on the 8th that it has obtained a Japanese patent for 'HX109,' a candidate substance for the prevention and treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

HX109 is a plant-based therapeutic developed by Helixmith's immunomodulation research team. In 2018, the research team published in the international journal Nutrients that HX109 effectively inhibits prostatic hyperplasia in animal models. Additionally, in 2020, they reported in Heliyon that HX109 can suppress prostate proliferation by regulating the interaction between macrophages and prostate epithelial cells.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia refers to the abnormal enlargement of prostate cells. When the prostate enlarges, it compresses the urethra, causing urinary flow obstruction and various voiding disorders. This results in lower urinary tract symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and nocturia.

The prevalence increases with aging, affecting more than 50% of men over 50 years old, and is one of the most significant factors reducing quality of life, especially in elderly men. According to analysis data from the Korea Health Industry Development Institute, the global market for benign prostatic hyperplasia treatments is expected to grow at an annual rate of over 8%, reaching approximately $4.5 billion by 2024.

Yoo Seungshin, CEO of Helixmith, stated, "Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a disease with a very high unmet medical need. The current market size is already large, but it is expected to grow further due to the increasing elderly population. We plan to develop HX109 both as a high-value individually approved product and as a prescription drug."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.