Genprex explores non-viral gene therapy for diabetes

AUSTIN, Texas - Genprex , Inc. (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:GNPX), a clinical-stage gene therapy company with a market capitalization of $3.49 million, has announced a collaboration with a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) to research a non-viral delivery system for its diabetes gene therapy candidate. The company, known for its cancer therapies, is now focusing on a second-generation approach to deliver gene therapy for diabetes patients. According to InvestingPro data, while Genprex maintains a favorable cash-to-debt position, its overall financial health score indicates challenges ahead.

The strategic partnership aims to optimize the delivery of Genprex’s diabetes gene therapy using a non-viral lipid nanoparticle system. This method could offer the possibility of re-dosing, which is not feasible with viral-based delivery systems due to immune responses against the viral capsid. Despite the stock’s significant decline of over 90% in the past year, analysts maintain a bullish stance with a price target of $7.50, suggesting potential upside if the company’s strategic initiatives succeed.

Genprex’s President and CEO, Ryan Confer, stated that this research is indicative of the company’s forward-thinking approach within the diabetes program. The company’s current preclinical studies have shown promising results in extending glucose control in Type 1 diabetes (T1D) mouse models using their drug candidate GPX-002. The therapy aims to transform alpha cells in the pancreas into insulin-producing beta-like cells, potentially evading the body’s immune system in T1D. A similar approach is being researched for Type 2 diabetes (T2D) to rejuvenate exhausted beta cells.

According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control, as of 2024, approximately 11.6% of the U.S. population, or 38.4 million Americans, have diabetes. The global impact of diabetes is also significant, with health expenditures reaching $966 billion in 2021. For investors interested in deeper analysis of biotech companies like Genprex, InvestingPro offers exclusive insights, including 13 additional investment tips and comprehensive financial metrics.

Genprex’s diabetes program is part of its broader mission to develop gene therapies for large patient populations with limited treatment options. The company’s oncology program has received Fast Track Designation from the FDA for the treatment of lung cancer patient populations, highlighting its commitment to addressing critical health issues.

The information in this article is based on a press release statement from Genprex, Inc.

In other recent news, Genprex, Inc. has made significant strides in its diabetes and cancer gene therapy programs. The company has secured an exclusive license from the University of Michigan for a patented gene therapy technology, aimed at treating ALK-positive lung cancer by combining its lead drug candidate, Reqorsa® Gene Therapy, with ALK-inhibitors. Additionally, Genprex has advanced to Phase 2 in its Acclaim-3 clinical trial for Reqorsa® in combination with Tecentriq® for small cell lung cancer, following successful Phase 1 results. In the diabetes sector, Genprex has consolidated its licensing agreements with the University of Pittsburgh, launching Convergen Biotech, Inc. as a subsidiary to focus on diabetes gene therapies.

Despite these advancements, Genprex faces challenges with Nasdaq listing requirements. The company has been notified of non-compliance due to its stock price not meeting the minimum bid requirement and a shortfall in stockholders’ equity. Genprex has until August 6, 2025, to rectify the bid price issue and until January 3, 2025, to submit a plan to address the equity shortfall. If compliance is not achieved, the company risks delisting but has the option to appeal any such decision. These developments reflect Genprex’s ongoing efforts to enhance its therapeutic offerings while addressing financial compliance challenges.

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