News

Potential therapy ATH434 may target toxic iron buildup in cells

An experimental compound called ATH434, currently being evaluated in clinical trials for a neurological disorder called multiple system atrophy, also may have the potential to treat Friedreich’s ataxia (FA). Data specifically indicate that ATH434 could help to reduce the toxic buildup of iron in cells that is characteristic…

Friedreich’s Ataxia Awareness Month begins with conversations

May will be a busy month for patients, doctors, researchers, and advocates in the Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) community as they participate in FA Awareness Month, an initiative for sharing information, personal stories, and support for those living with the rare neuromuscular disease. Named after Nikolaus Friedreich, the German physician…

LX2006 gene therapy now on FDA fast track for heart disease in FA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has put Lexeo Therapeutics’ LX2006, a gene therapy candidate for heart disease in people with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), on the fast track for development. The award of fast track status aims to expedite the development and regulatory review of investigational therapies…

FARA to host April 27 meeting on disease research, management

Patients and caregivers will hear the latest news on Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) research and management at an April 27 meeting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) will host its FA Research Reception at the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center. Topics for the event…

Gene-editing therapy restores more normal function in FA cell model

A gene-editing therapy designed to correct the FXN gene defect that’s associated with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) reversed several cellular features of the disease in patient-derived nerve cells, according to recent research. Scientists identified that dysfunction of a cellular compartment called the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) might play a key role in…

Novel compound seen to ease heart muscle disease in FA models

Stealth Biotherapeutics’ investigational therapy SBT-589 showed protective effects against cell energy deficits and heart muscle disease across several preclinical models of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), including a mouse model of pronounced heart disease, according to new laboratory data. SBT-589 is designed to boost the activity of mitochondria — known…