Acute thrombolytic with reversal agent
Basking is developing the first reversible thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The technology is based on two decades of translational research on RNA aptamers as therapeutic agents for cardiovascular diseases conducted by company founders Bruce Sullenger and Dr. Shahid Nimjee at Duke University and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
The Company’s candidate drug, BB-031, is an RNA aptamer that inhibits von Willebrand Factor (vWF), an important structural component of blood clots and driver of the clotting process. Basking is co-developing a complementary rapid-acting reversal oligonucleotide, BB-025, that immediately neutralizes BB-031 pharmacological activity in the event of bleeding. Basking’s paired therapy has the potential to extend the treatment window and significantly expand the population of patients that receive acute thrombolytic therapy. It aligns perfectly with the urgent need in medicine for precision-based therapeutics in cardiovascular disease.
Science
BB-031
BB-031, originally named DTRI-031, is an RNA aptamer that potently and rapidly inhibits the A1 domain of von Willebrand Factor (vWF). Targeting vWF, a key mediator of platelet rich clot formation and stability, represents a novel approach to improve the overall efficacy of pharmacological revascularization. BB-031 has demonstrated successful recanalization of occluded arteries in multiple animal models including a canine model of cerebrovascular stroke.
BB-031 Improved Stroke Outcomes vs. Control
67% reduction in stroke volume by MRI
BB-025
BB-025 is a rationally designed reversal agent that neutralizes BB-031 activity and normalizes hemostasis within minutes of administration in the event of bleeding. Immediate restoration of normal hemostasis will enable surgeons to intervene and address the bleed, thereby limiting associated downstream morbidity and mortality.
Reversal by BB-025 in Canines
Development Program Status
The Company completed a Phase 1 single escalating dose study of BB-031 in Q3 2022. A Phase 2 study in ischemic stroke patients will be initiated later in 2023.