Is This A Miracle Drug For 'Sticky Cholesterol'? Analysts Applaud Safety, Efficacy Of Silence Therapeutics' Heart Disease Candidate

Earlier today, Silence Therapeutics plc SLN announced topline results from the multiple-dose component of the APOLLO phase 1 study of zerlasiran (formerly SLN360) in 36 adults with baseline lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a), levels at or over 150 nmol/L and stable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD)

The data demonstrated a significant reduction from baseline in Lp(a) of up to 99% at 90 days following injection of repeated doses. Lp(a) levels remained approximately 90% lower than baseline at 201 days (end of treatment period) at the two highest doses. 

A dose-dependent reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) was also observed. 

Zerlasiran was well tolerated; no clinically important safety concerns were identified.

Zerlasiran is currently being evaluated in the fully enrolled ALPACAR-360 phase 2 study in patients with Lp(a) levels at or over 125 nmol/L at high risk of ASCVD events. 

Silence expects to report topline 36-week data in Q1 of 2024 and topline 48-week data in Q2 of 2024.

HC Wainwright writes that the reductions in Lp(a) demonstrated in the multiple-dose component appear to be clinically relevant.

The analyst sees zerlasiran potentially generating peak annual revenues of $2 billion-plus annually in Lp(a). It reiterates the $80 price target and Buy rating.

Although the press release lacked specific details, William Blair regards the significant and long-lasting reductions in Lp(a) levels in the study as a positive development. This outcome further enhances zerlasiran's competitive standing compared to other RNA-targeted peers.

Furthermore, the absence of elevated CRP or neutrophil levels at these highly effective doses represents a clear victory when compared to previous 600mg single ascending dose (SAD) data.

Price Action: SLN shares closed up 29.30% at $8.66 on Wednesday.

Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs
Comments
Loading...
date
ticker
name
Price Target
Upside/Downside
Recommendation
Firm
Posted In: Analyst ColorBiotechNewsHealth CareSmall CapAnalyst RatingsMoversTrading IdeasGeneralBriefsExpert Ideaswhy it's moving
Benzinga simplifies the market for smarter investing

Trade confidently with insights and alerts from analyst ratings, free reports and breaking news that affects the stocks you care about.

Join Now: Free!