Athira Pharma, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATHA) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Bothell, Washington, focused on developing novel therapies to restore neuronal health and stop neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease and other neurological conditions. The company's lead program, fosgonimeton (ATH-1017), is a small molecule that targets the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) system to promote neuroprotection, regeneration, and repair[1].
Founded in 2011 as a spinout from the University of Washington, Athira's approach is unique in its focus on the HGF/MET system, which plays a critical role in neuronal survival, synaptic function, and cognitive performance[2].
| Program | Target/Mechanism | Indication | Phase | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fosgonimeton (ATH-1017) | HGF/MET activator | Alzheimer's disease | Phase 2/3 | Recruiting |
| Fosgonimeton | HGF/MET activator | Parkinson's disease dementia | Phase 2 | Planning |
| ATH-1020 | HGF/MET activator | Alzheimer's disease | Preclinical | Research |
| ATH-2205 | HGF/MET activator | Neurodegeneration | Discovery | Research |
Fosgonimeton is a small molecule designed to activate the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) system, specifically targeting the MET receptor:
HGF/MET System:
Key Properties:
Phase 2 Study (LIFT-AD):
The Phase 2 LIFT-AD study in patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease evaluated fosgonimeton versus placebo:
Phase 2/3 Study (ACT-AD):
Currently enrolling patients with early Alzheimer's disease in a confirmatory Phase 2/3 study.
The hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) system is a powerful regenerative pathway:
In Alzheimer's disease:
| Approach | Limitation | Fosgonimeton Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-amyloid antibodies | ARIA risk, IV infusion | Oral, no ARIA |
| Anti-tau approaches | Late-stage intervention | Early intervention |
| Symptomatic treatments | Does not modify disease | Disease modification potential |
Headquarters: Bothell, Washington, USA
Founded: 2011
Ticker: ATHA (NASDAQ)
CEO: Dr. Rachel L. T. Smith (interim)
Key Focus Areas:
| Name | Position | Background |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Rachel L. T. Smith | Interim CEO | Executive leadership |
| Dr. John M. McKain | CMO | Clinical development |
| Dr. Kevin M.教会 | CSO | Research |
Alzheimer's Disease Treatment
Neurotrophic Factors Synaptic Dysfunction
Neuroinflammation in AD