Better for the patient, better for the healthcare system
Methotrexate is currently the most widely prescribed basic drug for rheumatoid arthritis worldwide. However, the problem is that methotrexate is expelled from cells and tissues too quickly to be optimally effective. Amplio Pharma wants to improve the effectiveness of methotrexate. It does so by adding novobiocin, which acts as a kind of lockkeeper by temporarily inhibiting the outflow pump in the cell (the ‘doors’ through which methotrexate is normally pumped out again), so that methotrexate stays longer in the inflammatory cells and can do its work there more powerfully. Higher efficacy means that methotrexate can be prescribed at lower doses and succeed in a larger group. This improves the lives of patients, who suffer significantly fewer unpleasant side effects as a result. And because more patients can be successfully treated with methotrexate for longer (they are less likely to become resistant), it takes longer before they have to switch to more expensive (combination) therapies. This greatly reduces the cost of care and contributes to a more sustainable healthcare system.
This is what Amplio Pharma will do with the investment
Amplio Pharma has successfully completed essential preclinical studies. A phase 1b clinical trial with rheumatoid arthritis patients is currently ongoing. After an interim analysis, initial results look good. Amplio Pharma is using the capital raised to fund clinical research with NovoBioJect: the current phase 1b study in rheumatoid arthritis patients and also the preparation (Clinical Trial Application) for the next, larger-scale study in patients.
Importance of this investment
Amplio Pharma fits within ROM InWest's focus to support North Holland Life Sciences & Health (LSH) companies with a clear social impact. With NovoBioJect, Amplio Pharma strengthens the existing standard treatment for rheumatoid arthritis patients, so that more patients can continue to respond better to their current therapy and a costly switch to expensive biologicals can be postponed. Once on the market, it will deliver immediate health benefits for patients and help keep healthcare accessible and affordable in the Netherlands.
The technology focuses on immune-mediated inflammatory diseases and thus also has potential for other conditions such as psoriasis and Crohn's disease. Amplio Pharma takes full advantage of the strong Amsterdam knowledge base around Amsterdam UMC, working closely with the Leiden ecosystem to accelerate early clinical development. Thus, this investment contributes to the valorisation of Dutch top knowledge into concrete patient care, with a prominent role for North Holland as a place where science and entrepreneurship come together.
