1. NorthStrive initiates Phase III with YuvaBio for drug candidate validation. 2. Phase III aims to generate data on mitochondrial health compounds. 3. Phase II identified promising candidates using MitoNova™ AI platform. 4. Focus is on muscle preservation for obesity treatments with GLP-1. 5. Phase III expected completion in 6 to 9 weeks.
FAQ
Why Bullish?
The positive advancement in drug development could increase investor confidence, similar to past efficacy announcements from biotech firms leading to price surges.
How important is it?
The ongoing clinical trials could significantly impact ELAB's stock performance and validate future earnings potential.
Why Short Term?
The 6 to 9 week timeframe for results aligns with immediate investment interest phases typical in biotech developments.
NorthStrive Biosciences Advances to Phase III of AI-Driven Drug Discovery Program
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Dec. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NorthStrive Biosciences Inc. (NASDAQ: ELAB), a subsidiary of PMGC Holdings Inc., has announced the commencement of Phase III of its innovative AI Development Program. This initiative is a collaborative effort with Yuva Biosciences, Inc., aimed at validating multiple promising drug compounds for obesity and related metabolic conditions.
Key Objectives of Phase III
The primary focus of Phase III is to generate impactful biological data on drug compounds identified through YuvaBio's advanced classifier. This classifier employs proprietary machine-learning techniques to pinpoint candidates that target muscle preservation by enhancing mitochondrial function. Notably, this phase aims to:
- Conduct experimental work to identify candidates that may upregulate ANT1, a crucial gene linked to metabolic function and muscle integrity.
- Accelerate the discovery of small-molecule candidates that promote mitochondrial health, crucial for muscle preservation.
- Utilize a specialized dataset on mitochondrial biogenesis to refine the experimental testing process, concentrating on the most promising candidates, thereby streamlining the development process.
Insights from Previous Phases
Phase III builds upon the substantial achievements of Phase II, where YuvaBio harnessed its proprietary AI platform, MitoNova™, focusing specifically on mitochondrial science. This stage produced a shortlist of small-molecule candidates, filtered through extensive computational screening techniques. The results from Phase II are particularly relevant for treating obesity, especially among patients utilizing GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Next Steps and Expectations
YuvaBio will initiate the generation of biological data for these compounds, which includes cytotoxicity screening and ANT1 expression testing conducted at multiple time points. Phase III is projected to last approximately 6 to 9 weeks, a timeline that will further test the efficacy of these AI-selected candidates.
About Yuva Biosciences, Inc.
Yuva Biosciences is a pioneering biotechnology company that utilizes mitochondrial science and cutting-edge artificial intelligence to develop therapeutic candidates targeting aging-related and metabolic pathways. The company's AI platform, MitoNova™, integrates data across biological, chemical, and mitochondrial functions to enhance the discovery of candidates aimed at improving cellular energy, metabolic health, and overall tissue functionality.
About NorthStrive Biosciences Inc.
NorthStrive Biosciences Inc. is dedicated to developing advanced aesthetic medicines and is a proud subsidiary of PMGC Holdings Inc. The company's flagship asset, EL-22, employs an engineered probiotic methodology to tackle the critical issue of muscle preservation in patients undergoing weight-loss treatments, specifically those using GLP-1 receptor agonists.
About PMGC Holdings Inc.
PMGC Holdings Inc. is a diversified holding company focused on managing and developing a diverse portfolio through strategic acquisitions and investments across multiple sectors. The company currently operates four wholly-owned subsidiaries, including NorthStrive Biosciences Inc. For further details, visit PMGCHoldings.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements in accordance with the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those expressed. Investors should consider these risks when evaluating the company's future performance and refer to PMGC's filings with the SEC for additional information.
Contact Information
For investor inquiries, please contact: IR@pmgcholdings.com