Beyond traditional PCSK9 inhibition
A next-generation approach to PCSK9 inhibition
Supported by a robust patent portfolio that includes over 50 peptides derived from PCSK9’s catalytic domain, our lead candidate, AQR-008, is designed to provide a differentiated approach to PCSK9 pathway modulation by targeting the LDL receptor at the PCSK9-binding interface.
Unlike traditional PCSK9 inhibitors, AQR-008 is designed to:
TARGET ONLY LDL RECEPTORS, WITHOUT INTERFERING WITH PCSK9 SYNTHESIS OR FUNCTIONS.
EFFECTIVELY LOWER LDL-C LEVELS IN A BROADER PATIENT POPULATION.
PROVIDE A POWERFUL SOLUTION FOR HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA, INCLUDING SEVERE OR COMPLEX CONDITIONS SUCH AS FAMILIAL HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA AND EXCEPTIONALLY HIGH LDL-C LEVELS.
AQR-008’s unique MoA
AQR-008 follows a differentiated approach to the clinically validated PCSK9–LDL-R pathway:
Targets the EGF-A domain on the LDL receptor (LDL-R)
Not designed to bind to PCSK9 or interfere with its synthesis
Designed to modulate the PCSK9–LDL-R interaction without directly targeting PCSK9’s other biological functions
Why this matters
By targeting the LDL receptor side of the PCSK9–LDL-R interaction, AQR-008 is designed to promote LDL-R recycling and enhance LDL-C clearance, with the potential to provide:
Greater LDL receptor availability for LDL-C clearance.
Continued LDL-R recycling and LDL-C processing.
A differentiated therapeutic option for patients with hypercholesterolemia, including high-risk and statin-intolerant patients.
AQR-008: advancing a differentiated approach to LDL-C lowering · AQR-008 is designed to modulate the clinically validated PCSK9–LDL-R pathway through a distinct mechanism, with the potential to expand future treatment options, either alone or in combination with other lipid-lowering therapies.
Innovation with the patient in mind
PATIENT-CENTRIC DESIGN
AQR-008 is being developed with patients in mind, aiming to provide a convenient and accessible treatment option that may support long-term adherence.
DIFFERENTIATED MECHANISM
AQR-008 is designed to target the LDL receptor side of the PCSK9–LDL-R interaction, providing a differentiated approach to modulation of the PCSK9 pathway.
SCALABLE DEVELOPMENT
Our development strategy is designed with scalability in mind, with the goal of supporting efficient manufacturing and broader future accessibility.
PRECISION-FOCUSED APPROACH
By targeting the LDL receptor at the PCSK9-binding interface, AQR-008 is designed to provide a focused approach to modulation of the PCSK9–LDL-R pathway.
STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Currently in the early preclinical development phase, Aqur is implementing a comprehensive strategic plan. Our development roadmap encompasses the following phases:
Collaborating with AI
Formulation development
Bioanalytical method development
In vitro and in vivo peptide profiling
Preclinical (PoM) studies
Preclinical toxicology studies & IND submission
AQR-008:
A Differentiated Approach to the PCSK9–LDL-R Pathway
Unlike existing approaches that target circulating PCSK9 or reduce its production, AQR-008 is designed to act from the LDL-R side of the PCSK9–LDL-R interaction:
TARGETED INTERACTION
Designed to target the EGF-A domain of LDL-R without directly targeting PCSK9 or its production.
LDL-R RECYCLING
Designed to reduce PCSK9-mediated LDL-R degradation, supporting receptor recycling back to the cell surface.
LDL CLEARANCE
Designed to increase functional LDL-R availability, potentially enhancing LDL uptake and clearance from the bloodstream.
PRESERVING PCSK9 FUNCTION
Designed to avoid directly targeting PCSK9, potentially preserving its biological functions beyond LDL-R regulation.
