Genprex reports positive results from diabetes gene therapy study

AUSTIN - Genprex, Inc. (NASDAQ:GNPX), a micro-cap biotechnology company with a market capitalization of $6.64 million, announced Tuesday that its research collaborators presented preclinical research on GPX-002, the company’s diabetes gene therapy candidate, at the American Diabetes Association’s 85th Scientific Sessions in Chicago. According to InvestingPro data, while the company maintains a healthy balance sheet with more cash than debt, its stock has experienced significant pressure, declining over 88% in the past year.

The research demonstrated that in animal models of Type 1 diabetes, alpha cells underwent transdifferentiation to beta-like cells after treatment with GPX-002, showing improved glucose control that lasted three months. For investors tracking this development, InvestingPro analysis indicates the company faces near-term financial challenges, with analysts not anticipating profitability this year.

The study, presented Monday by Dr. Hannah Rinehardt from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, evaluated GPX-002’s effects in non-human primates with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. The therapy uses recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) delivered into the pancreatic duct to transport Pdx1 and MafA genes.

One month after infusion, the primates showed improved glucose tolerance and reduced insulin requirements. Researchers found significantly elevated colocalization of insulin and glucagon in treated islets compared to untreated controls, suggesting alpha cells transformed into beta-like cells that produce insulin while retaining glucagon production capability.

The study also revealed that temporary immunosuppression using rituximab, rapamycin, and steroids for three months was largely effective at preventing anti-viral immunity, though longer immunosuppression may be necessary.

GPX-002 is being developed for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. In Type 1 diabetes, it aims to transform pancreatic alpha cells into functional beta-like cells that can produce insulin while potentially evading the immune system. In Type 2 diabetes, the therapy is believed to rejuvenate exhausted beta cells.

Researchers are continuing preclinical studies in non-human primate models of both diabetes types, with current studies evaluating viral efficacy after six months of immunosuppression, according to the company’s press release statement. Investors following this development can access additional insights and 10+ more exclusive ProTips through InvestingPro, with the company’s next earnings report expected on August 11, 2025.

In other recent news, Genprex, Inc. has announced compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s minimum stockholders’ equity requirement, following a deficiency notice in November 2024. This compliance allows Genprex to maintain its listing, though the company still faces a challenge with meeting the minimum bid price requirement of $1.00 per share by August 2025. Additionally, Genprex has secured an exclusive license with NYU Langone Health for Reqorsa® Gene Therapy, aimed at treating mesothelioma. This agreement grants Genprex patent exclusivity for this potential treatment, which targets the TUSC2 gene. Positive preclinical data have been presented, showing Reqorsa’s potential efficacy in reducing cell proliferation in mesothelioma. Moreover, Genprex has shared promising preclinical data on Reqorsa for KRASG12C mutant non-small cell lung cancer, demonstrating its ability to overcome resistance to existing treatments. The data will be presented at the 2025 AACR Annual Meeting, highlighting the therapy’s potential in combination with sotorasib. Genprex’s ongoing clinical trials for Reqorsa have received Fast Track Designations from the FDA for both non-small cell and small cell lung cancer programs.

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