Shares of XORTX Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: XRTX) are rising on the charts today, up 79.43% as of the last check to $2.10 after the release of encouraging new study findings. These peer-reviewed results support the XRTX’s use of Xanthine oxidase (XO) to treat kidney and associated illnesses.
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Xanthine Oxidase’s Function in Disease
Xanthine oxidase hydrolyzes purine nucleotides, which is a critical step in the metabolism of uric acid. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and uric acid (UA), byproducts of its breakdown, can negatively impact tissue integrity and the circulatory system when illnesses are present. Over-expression or enhanced activity of XO may be crucial in the development of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), especially in mouse models, according to research funded by XORTX.
Genetic Factors and XO Over-Expression
Recent studies have suggested a link between genetic factors and the over-expression of XO in various populations. While direct evidence of XO over-expression in human PKD is yet to be reported, new research points to a correlation between genetic variants and a range of conditions, such as hyperuricemia, sepsis, organ failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), diabetes, and kidney dysfunction.
These findings advocate for a precision medicine approach, where genetic risk factors could guide therapeutic decisions, specifically targeting XO to mitigate disease progression.
Potential for a Personalized Therapeutic Approach
XORTX’s research and development efforts are strategically aligned to leverage these findings by focusing on pharmacologic targeting of XO, especially in cases where its increased activity is associated with non-diabetic or diabetic kidney diseases. The company’s extensive patent portfolio and expertise in developing XO inhibitors position it uniquely to advance personalized treatments for those genetically predisposed to such conditions.
Clinical Trials Coming Soon and Prospects for the Future
To test XORLO, a proprietary formulation of oxypurinol, in individuals with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), XORTX intends to start a clinical research. This trial will further solidify XORTX’s leadership in this specialized field of therapies by examining the impact of hereditary variables on illness progression in addition to assessing the efficacy of XO inhibition.