Since it was founded fifteen years ago, Biophytis has been focusing its research on the design of two small molecules administered orally. 

Sarconeos (BIO101) was originally a treatment for sarcopenia, a disease that causes loss of muscle mass and strength, resulting in loss of mobility and walking ability, and in reduced life expectancy. It affects between 30 and 50 million patients worldwide, equivalent to Alzheimer’s disease. Produced from a plant, the molecule stimulates the hormonal system that regulates the activity of skeletal and smooth muscles, increasing both walking and breathing capacity. The latest phase 2 study involved 233 patients in Europe and demonstrated that the product stimulated walking speed in a clinically meaningful way. A first.

Indication against respiratory failure

There is clearly benefit for another indication, that of patients with severe respiratory failure caused by Covid 19. Sarconeos (BIO101) could potentially reduce resuscitation and mortality by 40%. Another trial, already in phase 3, is therefore being conducted with 200 patients in Europe. In the context of the health crisis, Biophytis hopes to market its product in the second half of 2022. 

Sarconeos (BIO101) is also indicated for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

“Most age-related illnesses remain untreated today. We are filling a gap in the face of a relatively recent medical need linked to the ageing population,” says Stanislas Veillet, President and CEO of Biophytis. 

The second drug candidate, Macuneos (BIO201), addresses age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In its dry form, there is currently no treatment for it. This degenerative retinal disease has a prevalence of 20 to 30% in people aged 90 years. This molecule slows down this degeneration by entering the blood and passing the blood barrier to act on the cells of the retina. Biophytis has been nominated for the Prix Galien Medstartup in the category “Best cooperation dedicated to vulnerable populations or developing countries” for its partnership with the William Beaumont Hospital, in Michigan, for work on Covid 19.