Codexis uses its CodeEvolver® protein engineering platform technology to develop an enzyme therapeutic candidate for the potential treatment of phenylketonuria (PKU) via oral administration

Codexis, Inc. (Nasdaq:CDXS), a leading developer of biocatalysts for the pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries, today announced that it has developed a novel enzyme therapeutic product candidate for the potential treatment of phenylketonuria (PKU) via oral administration. PKU is an inherited metabolic disorder in which the enzyme that converts the essential amino acid phenylalanine into tyrosine is deficient. As a result, phenylalanine accumulates in high levels in the brain causing serious neurological problems, including intellectual disability, seizures and cognitive and behavioral problems. Phenylalanine is found in many foods, including meat, dairy products, fish, poultry and many fruits and vegetables.

Codexis has conducted studies in a PKU animal model that demonstrate proof of concept for Codexis’ therapeutic enzyme product candidate. In these studies, Codexis’ enzyme therapeutic candidate was introduced into the stomach of the animal resulting in decreased blood phenylalanine levels. Codexis has filed patent applications covering the composition of matter for its therapeutic enzymes and the use of these enzymes as a treatment for PKU.

Codexis is seeking partners for its PKU program to advance its development. Codexis expects to begin preclinical studies for its enzyme therapeutic candidate in 2015.