ER-beta selective compounds - a platform with many clinical possibilities

The estrogen receptor (ER) is activated by the female sex hormone estrogen and regulates a number of functions in the body. Estrogen has a number of positive effects, but its use as a medical treatment has been limited by the associated increased risk for uterine and breast cancer as well as an increased cardiovascular risk. These risks are mainly linked to ER-alpha, while ER-beta seems to mediate the positive effects of estrogen. Karo Bio’s efforts to develop ER-beta selective compounds have resulted in an exciting platform with several clinical possibilities.

Karo Bio has initially chosen to focus on depression. The compound KB9520 was nominated in October 2009 as Karo Bio’s first candidate drug within the ER-beta program, and the pre-clinical development process, which is expected to take 12 to 14 months, was initiated directly. The goal is to negotiate a partnering deal for ER-beta within the CNS area before clinical trials are started.

In parallel, Karo Bio continues to document other follow-up compounds within the ER-beta program and to investigate the possibilities within different therapy areas. Besides the CNS area, Karo Bio’s ER-beta program has also the potential within other therapy areas, notably certain forms of cancer, urology, gynecology, pain and inflammation.