COYA 302 combination therapy tames brain inflammation in mice

Coya Therapeutics’ COYA 302, a combination therapy originally designed for ALS, has shown promise in reducing inflammation and immune cell activation in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease through subcutaneous injections. The therapy, which includes low-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2) and the fusion protein CTLA-4 Ig (abatacept), targets the nigrostriatal pathway, critical for motor control, and has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects. COYA 302 aims to enhance the function of regulatory T-cells (Tregs) to manage immune overactivity in the brain, potentially slowing disease progression. Excessive inflammation in Parkinson’s is linked to damage in dopaminergic neurons, leading to motor symptoms like tremors and stiffness. Researchers suggest that hyperactive microglia and astrocytes may contribute to neuroinflammation, and a lack of effective Tregs could exacerbate the issue. The company plans to extend its clinical testing of COYA 302 to Parkinson’s disease, with preclinical trials already underway, aiming for patient testing clearance by 2025. Early results indicate that COYA 302 effectively reduces inflammation and immune cell activation in key brain regions associated with motor function. Further research findings are expected to be published in a peer-reviewed journal.