NorthStrive Biosciences Expands AI-Driven Drug Discovery Program with Yuva Biosciences

NorthStrive Biosciences Inc., a subsidiary of PMGC Holdings Inc., has announced an expansion of its AI-driven drug discovery program with strategic partner Yuva Biosciences, Inc. The six-month program aims to narrow down four validated compounds towards the nomination of a lead compound, with potential therapeutic applications in cardiac diseases and obesity.

The expansion builds on positive Phase III results from the joint AI-driven drug discovery program, which demonstrated statistically significant increases in ANT1, a key mitochondrial protein, in primary human skeletal muscle cells. This expansion will be carried out through a structured three-phase development plan designed to progressively de-risk the validated compounds.

Under the new program, Expansion Phase I will establish a qualified assay and standard operating procedure. Phase II will confirm ANT1 induction in a more mature muscle model and provide ranked, go/no-go data for each compound. Phase III will profile the lead candidates against Yuva Biosciences’ Mitochondrial Biogenesis Panel, quantify cellular ATP output, and deliver an integrated mechanism-of-action hypothesis, leading to the nomination of a lead compound and designated backup.

The Expansion Program will take approximately six months to complete. The first phase is set to begin soon, with the Company planning to provide updates on key milestones, including the confirmation results from Phase II and the lead compound nomination from Phase III.

The agreement also clarifies and strengthens the defined field of use, expanding NorthStrive Biosciences’ exclusive rights to Cardiac Diseases and Obesity. The Amendment grants NorthStrive a right of first refusal to negotiate an exclusive license across the broader cardiometabolic field, positioning the company to explore commercial opportunities in both areas.

The expansion of the program’s scope and the rights granted to NorthStrive Biosciences reflect the growing importance of AI-driven drug discovery in targeting complex diseases. The cardiometabolic disease market, one of the largest and fastest-growing in medicine, offers significant commercial potential.

NorthStrive Biosciences Inc. remains focused on developing and acquiring cutting-edge aesthetic medicines, with its lead asset, EL-22, addressing the issue of muscle preservation while patients are on weight loss treatments. Yuva Biosciences, Inc., a mitochondrial sciences AI company, uses advanced AI to identify and develop therapeutic and natural candidates targeting aging-related pathways.

Both companies will continue to work closely to advance the AI-driven drug discovery program, with the ultimate goal of developing new therapies for cardiac diseases and obesity. Further updates will be provided as the program progresses.