Targeting the
Upstream Cause.
First-in-class covalent inhibitors of Heparanase to halt Diabetic Kidney Disease.
The Forest of Filtration
The Glomerular Basement Membrane is lined with a dense forest of Heparan Sulfate strands (Teal). This 'fuzz' is vital for filtration.
Charge Barrier
The negative charge of the strands repels proteins, keeping them in the blood and ensuring only waste is filtered.
Structural Defense
Structural integrity of this forest is the primary defense against kidney failure.
The Enzyme Attack
In disease, Heparanase (Red) descends. It acts as molecular scissors, hunting for the strands.
The Breakdown
Watch as the strands are cut and float away. The GBM is stripped bare.
Protein Loss
Albumin (Blue) leaks through the broken barrier. This drives inflammation and scarring.
The Lure
AVIGI's lead candidate, VL166, mimics the natural heparan sulfate structure to lure the enzyme.
The Trap
It is a 'Suicide Substrate.' The enzyme bonds to it irreversibly and is locked in a cage forever.
Natural Recovery
With the enzyme silenced, the forest naturally regenerates. Function is restored.
Forest Restored
With the enzyme silenced, the forest naturally regenerates. Function is restored.