IBS is a functional bowel disorder of the gastrointestinal tract that is characterized by recurrent abdominal pain and discomfort accompanied by alterations in bowel function, diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. Among the symptoms, abdominal pain is one of the most prevalent and significantly influences the quality of life of IBS patients, who represent 10-20% of the U.S. adult population. It is well established that stress plays a major role in the onset, maintenance, and exacerbation of IBS symptoms. Clinical proof of concept was provided after IV administration of α-hel-CRF(9-41), a peptide CRF1/2 antagonist designed by Jean Rivier, that was administered to ten normal individuals and ten females with IBS2. Patients reported improvements in gastrointestinal motility, visceral perception and negative mood in response to gut stimulation. Sentia plans to clinically evaluate astressins that have superior attributes1 compared to those of α-hel-CRF(9-41), such as a long-acting mode of action.

1 Erchegyi et. al., (2016) J. Med. Chem., 59, 854-866
2 Sagami et. al., (2004) Gut, 53, 958-964

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