Galmed Partners with Tel Aviv University to Test Brain-Penetrant SCD1 Inhibitor in Metastatic Brain Cancer
Galmed entered a research collaboration with Tel Aviv University’s Ramot to evaluate Aramchol, its first-in-class brain-penetrant SCD1 inhibitor, as a targeted therapy for p53-deficient metastatic brain cancers. The program will use advanced 3D in vitro and in vivo models to validate Aramchol’s efficacy in preclinical brain metastasis systems.
1. Collaboration Agreement
Galmed signed a research collaboration agreement with Ramot at Tel Aviv University to evaluate Aramchol, its brain-penetrant SCD1 inhibitor, as a targeted therapy for metastatic brain cancers. The collaboration unites the Ben-David Lab’s genomic expertise with the Satchi-Fainaro Lab’s advanced 3D in vitro and in vivo tumor models.
2. Scientific Rationale
The partnership builds on findings that p53 inactivation drives SCD1 upregulation, enabling tumor adaptation in the lipid-rich brain microenvironment. By inhibiting SCD1, Aramchol may disrupt fatty acid metabolism essential for proliferation of p53-deficient metastatic cells.
3. Preclinical Development Path
TAU’s 3D tumor models and spontaneous metastasis systems will validate Aramchol’s efficacy and mechanism in preclinical brain metastasis settings. Successful results could support Galmed’s ongoing clinical programs in colorectal cancers and guide future oncology development paths.