Helixmith Obtains Chinese Patent for Humanized Antibody New Drug Candidate 'VM507'

by Lee Gwanju

Published 12 Apr.2022 09:22(KST)

Helixmith Obtains Chinese Patent for Humanized Antibody New Drug Candidate 'VM507'

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwanju] Helixmith announced on the 12th that it has obtained a Chinese patent for the cMet activating antibody 'VM507'.

VM507 is a humanized antibody that can activate cMet, the receptor of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). It can induce activities similar to the HGF protein, such as preventing cell death and promoting angiogenesis. Being a humanized antibody, it is safe without immune rejection, and its in vivo half-life is longer compared to the HGF protein, making it easier to develop as a therapeutic agent.

VM507 has demonstrated efficacy in various diseases based on its activities such as recovering damaged cells or tissues and preventing fibrosis. Through collaborative research with Boramae Hospital, VM507 showed therapeutic effects including inflammation suppression, prevention of cell death, and fibrosis improvement in various kidney disease models such as chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, and immunoglobulin A nephropathy.

Helixmith plans to start clinical trials targeting renal failure and kidney diseases with VM507 from next year. Yuseung Shin, CEO of Helixmith, said, “Patents related to VM507 have been registered in the US, Europe, Japan, China, and other regions, recognizing Helixmith’s antibody technology globally,” and added, “We are striving for clinical entry of VM507 based on its multifaceted efficacy for kidney diseases.”