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Biophytis SA, a Paris-based clinical-stage biotechnology company specialising in the development of treatments for age-related diseases, has announced the signing of a co-development agreement with AskHelpU, the largest patient association in China for those affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
This co-development agreement aims to evaluate the efficacy of BIO101, Biophytis’ lead drug candidate, in ALS. If the preclinical results are promising and the proof of concept is established following the initial phase, the development will progress towards a larger-scale clinical phase. BIO101, which is currently in development for other indications, including sarcopenia and obesity, could represent a major therapeutic solution for patients with this severe neuromuscular disease.
This entirely synergistic agreement will leverage Biophytis’ expertise with its drug candidate and AskHelpU’s knowledge in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease.
AskHelpU will rely on top chinese universities and research laboratories to conduct the experiments. This agreement between Biophytis and AskHelpU marks a unique development opportunity for Biophytis and its BIO101 drug candidate, demonstrating the wide potential of the molecule, including for the treatment of rare diseases.
ALS is a severe and progressive disease, leading to the gradual paralysis of muscles, speech, and swallowing functions. Despite recent advances in understanding the genetics and biology of ALS, no curative treatment is yet available. Globally, the prevalence of ALS is between 4.1 and 8.4 patients per 100,000 inhabitants. The current number of patients is estimated at 6,000 in France, 31,000 in the United States, and around 200,000 in China, making it one of the largest markets for research and development of new treatments.
Since the founding of AskHelpU in 2019, founder Cai Lei, former JD.com Vice President has built the largest patient-centered data platform, connecting over 15,000 people across China with the aim of saving more than one million people affected by neurodegenerative diseases. Since 2019, Cai Lei has personally invested over 30 million RMB in the fight against ALS and in supporting patients. In early 2024, Cai and his wife announced that they will donate another 100 million RMB to support to basic research.
