SK Chemicals announced on Monday that it has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with J2H Biotech for a strategic partnership to develop and commercialize J2H-1702, a potential treatment for metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASH).
This follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the two companies in March for joint development of new drug pipelines. After conducting thorough technical and business due diligence on J2H-1702, SK Chemicals has decided to proceed with joint development, having carefully evaluated the candidate’s technological strengths and commercial viability.
J2H-1702 is an oral 11β-HSD1 inhibitor developed in-house by J2H Biotech. The enzyme 11β-HSD1 plays a crucial role in regulating cortisol metabolism. J2H-1702 works by modulating cortisol overactivity, thereby inhibiting fat accumulation and inflammation during the progression of MASH.
MASH is a condition characterized by inflammation and liver cell damage in fatty liver disease. If left unchecked, it can progress to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and potentially liver cancer. This condition was previously known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
J2H has successfully completed the Phase 2a clinical trial for J2H-1702. The trial yielded promising early signals, suggesting the drug’s potential to reduce liver fat and combat fibrosis.
Under this agreement, both companies plan to intensify discussions to refine their domestic and international clinical and development strategies. They will also continue negotiations to establish step-by-step development and commercialization plans.
Park Hyun-sun, SK Chemicals’ business representative, stated that MASH is one of the most promising areas in new drug development. The due diligence has confirmed the competitiveness and scientific basis of J2H-1702. It will continue to expand our new drug pipeline by collaborating with companies that possess expertise and technological capabilities in areas with limited treatment options.
J2H Biotech, established in 2014, is a drug development company. It focuses on developing new drug candidates for metabolic and fibrotic diseases, as well as oncology, using its proprietary drug development platform, OPTIFLEX.
