Rona Therapeutics Gets NMPA Approval For IND Application Of RN1871, A New AGT-Targeting siRNA Drug For Hypertension

Rona Therapeutics, a biotechnology company developing RNA-targeted therapies, has announced that its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for RN1871 has been approved by China’s National Medical Products Administration. This approval allows Rona to begin clinical trials of RN1871 in humans. RN1871 is a small interfering RNA (siRNA) drug specifically designed to target and silence the production of angiotensinogen (AGT) mRNA in the liver. AGT is a key precursor protein in the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), a hormonal system that plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure. 

Stella Shi, CEO and Founder of Rona Therapeutics, said in a statement, “The IND approval of RN1871 marks a significant breakthrough in our pursuit of innovative therapies for chronic diseases. By leveraging siRNA technology to treat disease fundamentally, RN1871 achieves sustained efficacy with less dosing frequency. We look forward to bringing this innovative therapy to hypertension management where more compliant and safe treatment is needed to improve cardiovascular events and other comorbidities.”

Dr. Alex M. DePaoli, Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President of Translational Medicine, stated, “RN1871’s preclinical data showed potent AGT suppression which reduces blood pressure significantly with a favorable safety profile. We plan to advance RN1871 into Phase I trials to evaluate its safety, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary efficacy in humans. This progress reflects our team’s expertise in translating scientific insights into clinical solutions.”

When the RAAS pathway becomes overactive, it is closely linked to the development and worsening of hypertension. By reducing AGT levels, RN1871 aims to precisely inhibit this pathway and provide better control of blood pressure. Preclinical studies have shown that RN1871 can effectively lower and maintain blood pressure over an extended period, indicating its potential as a long-acting treatment. With more than 1.5 billion people worldwide affected by hypertension, RN1871 could offer a promising new therapeutic option to help manage this widespread condition.