Galmed Announces First Time Results in Oncology Studies: Aramchol Significantly Enhances Bayer's Regorafenib Effect in GI Cancer Models

Core Insights - Galmed Pharmaceuticals announced positive results from initial oncology studies showing that Aramchol enhances the effects of Regorafenib, a therapeutic approved for liver and colorectal cancers, in both in-vitro and in-vivo models [1][6] - The combination of Aramchol and Regorafenib demonstrated significant tumor growth suppression in hepatoma models without causing toxicity to normal tissues [2][6] - A Phase 1b clinical trial is planned to evaluate the combination of Aramchol and Regorafenib in patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancers, set to begin in Q4 2025 [6] Company Overview - Galmed Pharmaceuticals is focused on developing Aramchol primarily for liver disease and is now expanding its applications to oncological indications beyond non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) [4] - The company aims to diversify its product pipeline by targeting cardiometabolic indications and other innovative drug candidates that align with its expertise in drug development [4] Scientific Mechanisms - The study identified key molecular mechanisms by which Aramchol and Regorafenib kill gastrointestinal tumor cells, highlighting that Aramchol enhances autophagy through different mechanisms than Regorafenib [3] - The interaction between Aramchol and Regorafenib leads to increased autophagic flux and autolysosome formation, which is essential for the enhanced efficacy of the drug combination [3]