SK Chemical Partners with J2H Biotech for MASH Treatment Drug Development

SK Chemical and J2H Biotech have entered into a strategic partnership, signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) to jointly develop and commercialize a promising drug candidate, J2H-1702, for the treatment of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH). This collaboration builds upon a previous Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in March for joint new drug pipeline development.

MASH is a serious liver condition characterized by fat accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is closely linked to metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, making it a significant focus for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies globally. J2H-1702 is an oral drug candidate designed to inhibit the enzyme 11β-HSD1, which regulates cortisol metabolism. The companies believe that by controlling cortisol overactivity, the drug can mitigate fat accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis associated with MASH.

J2H Biotech has already completed Phase 2a clinical trials for J2H-1702, reporting early indications of reduced liver fat and potential anti-fibrotic effects. Under the terms of the new agreement, SK Chemical will be responsible for domestic clinical development and regulatory approvals in South Korea, while J2H Biotech will manage the production of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) and quality control. Both companies will continue discussions regarding global clinical development strategies and commercialization plans.

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We expect that J2H-1702, developed with our proprietary technology, can accelerate domestic and international development through collaboration with SK Chemical. We aim to prove the value of J2H-1702 on the global stage based on this partnership.

"We expect that J2H-1702, developed with our proprietary technology, can accelerate domestic and international development through collaboration with SK Chemical," said Kim Jae-sun, CEO of J2H Biotech. "We aim to prove the value of J2H-1702 on the global stage based on this partnership."

Park Hyun-sun, Business Representative of SK Chemical, added, "MASH is one of the most watched areas in new drug development, and through due diligence, we have confirmed the competitiveness and scientific evidence of J2H-1702. We will continue to expand our new drug pipeline by collaborating with companies possessing expertise and technology in disease areas with limited treatment options."

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MASH is one of the most watched areas in new drug development, and through due diligence, we have confirmed the competitiveness and scientific evidence of J2H-1702. We will continue to expand our new drug pipeline by collaborating with companies possessing expertise and technology in disease areas with limited treatment options.