Catena®

Catena® is Santhera's lead compound and is being developed for the treatment of Friedreich's Ataxia, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy, MELAS and Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis.

Catena® is a small molecule optimized to facilitate the transport of electrons within mitochondria, and contributes to maintaining correct electron balance, which is necessary for the production of cellular energy. Nerve and muscle cells, including heart muscle cells, are particularly energy-demanding and are, therefore, more prone to rapid cell damage or death due to mitochondrial dysfunction. Through preserving mitochondrial function and protecting cells from oxidative stress, it is believed that Catena® can prevent cell damage and increase the production of energy within impaired nerve and muscle tissue in Friedreich's and Duchenne patients. These properties are also thought to be valuable in Leber's patients where retinal cells are damaged leading to blindness.

Santhera has received approval with conditions from Health Canada to treat Friedreich's Ataxia. The drug is marketed under the brand name Catena®. The Company has been granted orphan drug designation in the US and Europe for Friedreich's Ataxia, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy.