BioVie Initiates SUNRISE-PD Clinical Trial Assessing Bezisterim in Early Parkinson’s Disease with First Patient Enrolled

Core Insights - BioVie Inc. has initiated patient enrollment for the Phase 2 SUNRISE-PD clinical trial, which evaluates the safety and efficacy of bezisterim in patients with Parkinson's disease who have not been treated with carbidopa/levodopa, with topline data expected in late 2024 or early 2025 [2][4][7] Company Overview - BioVie Inc. is a clinical-stage company focused on developing innovative drug therapies for neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and long COVID [14][15] - Bezisterim (NE3107) is an orally bioavailable, BBB-permeable, insulin-sensitizer and anti-inflammatory drug candidate that may provide clinical improvements in various disease indications [11][14] Clinical Trial Details - The SUNRISE-PD trial is a Phase 2b, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study designed to last 20 weeks, with approximately 60 patients randomized to receive either 20 mg of bezisterim or placebo twice daily [4][5] - The trial incorporates a decentralized approach, allowing patients to participate remotely, which broadens access for individuals with Parkinson's disease [4][6][7] Disease Context - Parkinson's disease is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons, leading to motor and non-motor symptoms, with current treatments primarily providing symptomatic relief without modifying disease progression [3][8][9] - Emerging research indicates that chronic inflammation and insulin resistance play critical roles in the onset and progression of Parkinson's disease, suggesting that targeting these mechanisms may offer new therapeutic avenues [10][12] Support and Collaboration - Patient enrollment for the SUNRISE-PD trial is supported by prominent advocacy groups, including The Michael J. Fox Foundation, Davis Phinney Foundation, and The Parkinson's Foundation, emphasizing the importance of increased patient access to clinical trials [2][7][6]