Eli Lilly reports positive early results for its gene-editing cholesterol therapy

Glonghui, May 25 — Eli Lilly (LLY.N) announced that its experimental gene-editing therapy for the treatment of high cholesterol has achieved positive results in a Phase 1b clinical trial. According to Eli Lilly, in the Phase 1b study targeting adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia or early-onset coronary artery disease, a single infusion of the therapy called Verve-102 led to a reduction in PCSK9 protein levels by up to 88%, and a reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol by as much as 62%. This therapy employs in vivo base editing technology to effectively deactivate the PCSK9 gene in the liver, mimicking a natural genetic variation that can help prevent heart disease. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track designation to this therapy. Eli Lilly stated that the efficacy lasts up to 18 months, and no serious adverse events related to the treatment have been reported. The company plans to initiate a Phase 2 clinical study of Verve-102 by the end of this year.