A first-in-class therapy for intestinal malabsorption in premature newborns

Around 10% babies are born preterm, and premature birth is the 1st cause of new-born deaths. Preterm infants are born with an underdeveloped gastrointestinal (GI) tract, causing intestinal malabsorption.

At the first weeks of life, adequate nutrition is critical for brain and vital organ development, so infants are placed on central line nutrition until their GI is capable of absorbing sufficient nutrition. However, central line nutrition is inadequate for critical growth and poses life-threatening risks.

Thus, a fast transition to oral independence is the goal for improving outcomes. ELGN-GI is the first drug for stimulating gut maturation for rapid transition to oral nutrition.

It is safe and demonstrated to reduce 4 days dependent on Parenteral Nutrition, ~7 days in high-level NICU, ~7 days in hospitalization period, and to contribute to 40% reduction of life-threatening infections and Necrotizing Enterocolitis.