Highlights

  • GENF expands preclinical programs for aging-related diseases, backed by research collaborations and government grants.
  • The company reports progress on MASH and Werner syndrome models; begins gene therapy trial in aging dogs.
  • GENF advances global patent filings for SIRT6 technology with institutional partnerships and IP support.

Genflow Biosciences Plc (LSE:GENF)(OTCQB:GENFF), a UK-based biotechnology company with research operations in Belgium, has provided a mid-year update on its gene therapy pipeline focused on aging and age-related diseases. The company, which holds exclusive rights to SIRT6 gene variants associated with longevity, has reported milestones across several programs including metabolic disorders, genetic syndromes, and age-related muscle loss.

One of Genflow’s key developments is its partnership with CER Groupe, a Belgian research organization, through a newly signed Master Service Agreement. CER Groupe will contribute regulated research and bioproduction support, enabling Genflow to further develop its gene therapy candidates under pre-IND (Investigational New Drug) conditions.

In terms of intellectual property, Genflow has made progress in expanding its patent coverage. Its European patent application related to SIRT6 variants has advanced without objections and moved into the national phase, facilitating protection across EU member states. In Japan, the same application has entered the national examination phase. The patent, originally filed in May 2022, is co-owned by institutions including the University of Rochester and Columbia University. Genflow holds an exclusive global license for this IP and is also pursuing independent patent filings related to additional SIRT6 applications.

In the MASH (Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis) program, Genflow completed a successful test production run with Exothera SA for its GF-1002 candidate. Manufacturing yields exceeded expectations, and pivotal studies are underway with two CROs Physiogenex and Accelera to support a clinical trial application. The program is funded in part by a research grant from Belgium’s Wallonia regional government.

The company also signed an agreement with Heureka Labs, a Duke University spin-off, to apply AI-driven analysis of genomic data. Heureka’s platform will assist in interpreting RNA sequencing and gene expression profiles to refine therapeutic development.

For Werner syndrome, a rare genetic disorder linked to premature aging, Genflow has built a human liver organoid model using cells derived from affected patients. This model allows for preclinical testing of GF-1003 in a human-relevant tissue environment, offering insight into the potential efficacy and safety of the treatment without relying on animal studies.

Genflow’s work on age-related conditions extends into veterinary science. A six-month clinical trial in dogs began in March 2025 to evaluate the safety and potential effectiveness of SIRT6 gene therapy. The trial involves 28 dogs over the age of 10, and will assess biological aging markers, muscle performance, and other indicators using a randomized, controlled design.

The Sarcopenia (GF-1005) program targets muscle loss associated with aging. In collaboration with Université libre de Bruxelles and Revatis, Genflow is testing myoblast cells engineered to express centenarian variants of SIRT6. In addition, the company is exploring combinations of SIRT6 with three other sirtuin genes, creating a set of four drug candidates. Stable dual expression of these genes has been achieved, and functional assessments are ongoing, particularly focusing on mitochondrial activity.

In a newly launched ophthalmology program, Genflow is working to deliver gene therapy to the eye using a non-viral vector system. A Material Transfer Agreement has been signed with a partner in the field to co-develop this technology, targeting conditions such as glaucoma and corneal disorders.

Across all programs, Genflow has secured funding through regional grants and continues to grow its academic and commercial partnerships. The company’s mission centers on the development of gene therapies that could influence the biology of aging, with the goal of delaying disease onset and improving quality of life.