About Diapin Therapeutics
Diapin was founded by Dr. Yuqing (Eugene) Chen, M.D., Ph.D., based on technology disclosed to the University of Michigan from Dr. Chen’s laboratory. Diapin Therapeutics is a spin out company from the University of Michigan. Research at Diapin has been funded by grants and Beijing SL Pharmaceuticals LTD (Beijing SL). (See Investors and Collaborators).
DT678 and DT109
Targeting Unmet Needs
DT109 shows efficacy in a murine model of Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and other dyslipidemias. Based on these findings, DT109 development focused on MASH, although the compound also shows anti-diabetic potential. DT109 also showed its ability to prevent arteriosclerosis in a murine model of the disease. These works of Rom et al., were recognized with the Irvine H. Page Junior Faculty Research Award by the Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, Vascular Biology Council of the American Heart Association in 2022.
DT109 reduced fatty liver, scarring, fibrosis and liver enzymes, (AST, ALT, ALP) in a non-human primate model of MASH. DT109 limited the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in both the aorta and coronary arteries of nonhuman primates. DT109 also stopped critical processes that lead to vascular calcification, a significant driver of arterial stiffening and plaque instability. Results of the study, conducted in partnership with Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, are published in Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy.
Diapin in-licensed DT678, a new anti-platelet drug, from the University of Michigan. DT678 is an orally available novel prodrug that is metabolized to the active metabolite of Plavix (clopidogrel). Unlike Plavix, DT678 activation occurs rapidly without the need of liver metabolism. Preclinical studies indicate a lower bleeding risk and neuro and cardio protective properties compared with clopidogrel. DT678 activation occurs by reduction of the molecule in the blood which occurs at high efficiency, leading to near complete conversion to its active form and rapid onset of action. Clopidogrel has been labelled the “gold-standard” of low bleeding risk among anti-thrombotic drugs however it does not work well for everyone. Clopidogrel has reduced efficacy in patients with loss of function (LoF) CYP2C19 alleles, and in patients with obesity, diabetes and patients over 65. This provides a significant global market opportunity for an improved antiplatelet agent. Beijing SL licensed rights for the Chinese market for both DT678 and DT109 from Diapin. Diapin retains commercial rights in all other territories.
Diapin Therapeutics is part of Ann Arbor's Life Science Ecosystem which is vibrant with several mature pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations, and start-ups. The University of Michigan, Wayne State, Michigan State, and Eastern Michigan Universities are in close proximity and create an ideal environment to nurture innovative research and discovery. Diapin has close connections with faculty at both Michigan State and the University of Michigan. Three of the four members of Diapin’s Scientific Advisory Board have faculty or adjunct faculty positions at the University of Michigan.