Richmond Pharmacology, a leading Contract Research Organisation (CRO) specialising in early-phase clinical trials, proudly announces its pivotal role in a ground breaking gene-editing clinical trial for heart disease. As a global leader in the conduct of gene editing clinical trials, Richmond is setting new standards in advancing medical research and pioneering potential curative treatments for debilitating diseases.

In collaboration with pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and led by Dr. Sekar Kathiresan, chief executive of Verve Therapeutics, the heart-1 phase 1b trial focused on patients with a heterozygous form of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). This genetic condition, affecting approximately 1 in 300 people globally, leads to dangerously high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, significantly increasing the risk of coronary artery heart disease. Despite its prevalence, fewer than 10% of those affected globally receive proper diagnosis and treatment, leading to alarming rates of heart attacks.

Richmond Pharmacology was responsible for dosing and clinically managing participants in the trial, marking a significant achievement in the field. The gene-editing tool targeted a mutated PCSK9 gene, resulting in LDL level reductions of 39 to 55 percent in participants receiving the highest doses. This ground breaking approach has the potential to transform the lives of millions suffering from FH and offers hope for addressing heart disease on a global scale.

Dr. Jorg Taubel, CEO of Richmond Pharmacology, expressed immense pride in the organisation's involvement, stating, "Richmond is incredibly proud to be a part of this groundbreaking advance in medical research. It is our hope that this new gene editing treatment could lead the way in changing the lives of many who suffer from FH."

Situated in London Bridge, United Kingdom, we stand as a global leader in gene editing clinical trials, showcasing unparalleled expertise and experience in dosing patients into these transformative therapies. With a proven track record of success, Richmond continues to contribute significantly to advancing gene editing research, supporting pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in their pursuit of potential curative treatments. The company's dedication to patient safety, scientific rigour, and unwavering commitment to innovation places it at the forefront of this revolutionary field of medicine.

To find out more about one patient's journey – where through a collaborative effort, the patient was referred to Barts Health NHS Trust who in conjunction with Richmond Pharmacology provided the opportunity for this patient to enrol in this ground breaking clinical trial Barts Health patient is 10th person to take part in pioneering clinical trial | Our news - Barts Health NHS Trust

To read more about the results of the study click here: https://www.vervetx.com/sites/default/files/2023-11/Verve_AHA_2023_LBS_for%20website.pdf

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