Herantis Pharma doses final cohort in phase 1b trial of HER-096 for Parkinson’s disease

Trial progresses towards topline data expected later in the year

Herantis Pharma has dosed the first patients in the final cohort of its phase 1b clinical trial assessing HER-096, a disease-modifying treatment for Parkinson’s disease. The study aims to evaluate the drug’s safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics while exploring biomarkers linked to the condition.

HER-096 is a first-in-class synthetic peptidomimetic designed to mimic cerebral dopamine neurotropic factor (CDNF) protein. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier allows for convenient subcutaneous administration, setting it apart from existing therapies that primarily manage symptoms.

Antti Vuolanto, CEO of Herantis Pharma, said: “Parkinson’s disease is a life-altering condition, and there is an urgent need for new treatments that can halt or slow its progression.

“We are highly encouraged by the potential of HER-096. Its disease-modifying properties combined with its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier make it a compelling candidate to become a transformative therapy for Parkinson’s that addresses the underlying disease, not just the symptoms.”

Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 10 million people worldwide, and there is currently no cure. Available treatments are often associated with side effects and offer only symptomatic relief.

The trial, which has received approval from the Data and Safety Monitoring Board, is funded by the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and Parkinson’s UK.

Herantis expects topline data from the phase 1b study in September 2025, providing further insights into HER-096’s potential role in addressing neuronal degeneration and cell death associated with Parkinson’s disease.