Novel Mechanism of Action That Targets Multiple Pathways

One of Hepion’s lead drug candidates is CRV431, a cyclophilin inhibitor with a novel mechanism of action that targets multiple pathways involved in the progression of chronic liver disease. CRV431 has demonstrated antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activity in preclinical studies, and is currently being evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Hepion is also developing additional drug candidates, including ARO-APOC3 for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia and ARO-HSD for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). These drug candidates are based on Hepion’s proprietary AI-POWR™ (Artificial Intelligence – Precision Medicine; Omics-based World Recognition) platform, which utilizes advanced computational tools to identify novel drug targets and optimize drug development.

Leading Clinical Development of the Lead Drug Candidate

Todd M. Hobbs is the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Hepion Pharmaceuticals. As CMO, Dr. Hobbs is responsible for overseeing the company’s clinical development programs and guiding the development of Hepion’s drug candidates from preclinical testing to regulatory approval and commercialization. Dr. Hobbs brings over 20 years of experience in clinical practice, academic medicine, and industry to his role at Hepion Pharmaceuticals.

Prior to joining Hepion in 2019, he served as Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Novo Nordisk, where he led the company’s global medical affairs team and played a key role in the development and launch of several new diabetes and obesity therapies. Before that, Dr. Hobbs held senior medical leadership positions at other biopharmaceutical companies, including Intarcia Therapeutics, Inc., and Bristol-Myers Squibb.

At Hepion, Dr. Hobbs is leading the clinical development of the company’s lead drug candidate, CRV431, which has shown promising results in preclinical and clinical studies for the treatment of chronic liver disease. He is also playing a key role in the development of Hepion’s other drug candidates, including ARO-APOC3 and ARO-HSD, which are based on the company’s proprietary AI-POWR platform.

Dr. Hobbs is a board-certified internist and endocrinologist, and holds a medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his residency in internal medicine and fellowship in endocrinology at the University of Washington in Seattle.

Overcoming Challenges 

As with any biopharmaceutical company, Hepion has faced several challenges in its efforts to advance its drug development programs. One of the primary challenges is the complex and highly regulated nature of drug development, which requires extensive preclinical and clinical testing to evaluate the safety and efficacy of drug candidates. Hepion has worked to overcome this challenge by designing well-controlled clinical trials and engaging in ongoing communication with regulatory authorities to ensure that its drug development programs meet the necessary regulatory requirements.

Another challenge facing Hepion is securing funding for research and development, which can be costly, particularly for early-stage biopharmaceutical companies. Hepion has overcome this challenge by securing funding from a variety of sources, including venture capital firms, government grants, and partnerships with other companies. In addition to funding, Hepion also faces competition from other companies in the same space. To overcome this challenge, the company has focused on developing drug candidates that target multiple pathways involved in the progression of chronic liver disease, which it believes will offer a unique and differentiated approach to treating these conditions.

 Recognizing the Importance of Sustainability

Hepion Pharmaceuticals recognizes the importance of sustainability and has taken several steps to minimize its environmental impact and support sustainable practices. One key area of focus for the company has been reducing its carbon footprint. Hepion has implemented initiatives such as reducing energy consumption in its offices and laboratories and encouraging employees to use public transportation or carpool to work. Additionally, the company has implemented a waste management program that includes recycling and properly disposing of hazardous materials. Another way in which Hepion has embraced sustainability is through its supply chain. The company works with suppliers and vendors who share its commitment to sustainable practices and have implemented measures to reduce waste, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions.