Experimental Treatments for Friedreich's Ataxia

CTI-1601 is an investigational therapy designed to deliver the frataxin protein to the mitochondria of Friedreich’s ataxia patients. Dosing was completed in a Phase 1 trial in December 2020, and top-line data are expected in the second quarter of 2021.

Epicatechin is a naturally occurring compound that has been identified as a potential treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia. The flavonols (+)-epicatechin and (-)-epicatechin are found in very small amounts in wine, dark chocolate, and green tea. Results of a small Phase 2 trial were published in September 2020.

Etravirine is an anti-viral medication approved by the FDA to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. A screening study showed that it may have benefits for the treatment of Friedreich’s ataxia as well. A Phase 2 trial, launched in March 2020, is currently recruiting.

Gene therapy consists of the intracellular delivery of genetic material to generate a therapeutic effect by correcting an existing abnormality or providing the cells with a new function. This approach could be used to treat FA by either correcting the faulty frataxin gene or any damage caused by the disease on other systems in the body, such as the heart.

Leriglitazone, or MIN-102, is an oral medication being developed for treating several diseases of the brain and spinal cord, including Friedreich’s ataxia. It has shown potential to treat the disease in recent animal and cell studies, and positive top-line results from a Phase 2 trial were released in December 2020.

Methylprednisolone is a steroid used to reduce inflammation, and may be able to help ease the symptoms of Friedreich’s ataxia. A Phase 1 trial was completed in 2019, but it did not meet its primary objective, with results showing no clear benefit for FA patients. No information is available yet on further studies.

Nicotinamide, or vitamin B3, is being studied as a potential treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia. Initial study results show that it may improve frataxin production but that this may not translate into easing symptoms of the disease. A Phase 2 trial testing nicotinamide was recruiting FA patients in Europe as of December 2019.

Resveratrol is a natural compound found in the skin of red grapes, peanuts, blueberries, and some other berries. It is a very powerful antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. A Phase 2 trial studying micronized resveratrol is currently recruiting Friedreich’s ataxia patients.

RT001 is an experimental fatty acid aimed at stabilizing the mitochondrial and cellular membranes against attacks and restores cellular health. It is being tested in Friedreich’s ataxia patients in a Phase 3 trial, which began in October 2019.