Promising programmes

A substantial amount of pharmacological and clinical data accumulated over the past 30 years indicate a wide spectrum of biological benefits from the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docoshexaenoic acid (DHA). These benefits include regulation of:

• Plasma lipid levels
• Cardiovascular functions
• Immune functions
• Insulin action
• Neural development
• Visual functions
• Cognitive functions

The reason for these wide-ranging effects is that the natural PUFAs regulate a variety of biochemical pathways. Research programmes at Pronova Bio- Pharma aim at new lipid compounds which have more specific biological effects than the natural PUFAs. The main focus is on two main therapeutic areas: cardiovascular/metabolic and chronic inflammation.

Competitive edge

Over the past 15 to 20 years, research has shown that omega-3 PUFAs regulate gene expression. The beneficial effects of omega-3 PUFAs on lipid and glucose metabolism are probably a result of this gene regulation. In this respect, nuclear receptors like the primary prevention of so called cardiovascular disease PPARs are possible targets for the group’s new products in the cardiovascular and metabolic area. The PPARs have been the focus of intense academic and pharmaceutical research since their discovery in the early 1990s.

Pronova BioPharma’s early discovery programmes indicate that the new lipid derivatives have the potential to compete in this market owing to the intrinsic effects of lipids. The lipid derivatives have modulating abilities on biological responses and may contribute a better therapeutic outcome and safety than are seen with full agonists. In addition to targeting the PPARs, Pronova BioPharma is investigating other targets for new lipid-based drugs in the prioritised disease areas. All the group’s research and development projects are protected by a broad fi led and pending patent portfolio.