Episode 3: A View On: Developing Acid Reflux Therapy

Pain in the Gut: Next Generation Therapy for Acid Reflux in the Pipeline

In this episode, we are joined by Kjell Anderson, Chief Scientific Officer at Cinclus Pharma, to discuss a novel treatment for acid reflux.

Millions of people worldwide grapple with acid reflux, which may progress to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Chronic acid exposure in the esophagus can lead to discomfort, inflammation, and even erosions—tissue damage that can severely affect a patient’s quality of life. While lifestyle modifications and standard proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) offer relief for some, they are not always effective for moderate to severe forms of GERD, largely due to limited coverage over a 24-hour period.

In this episode we discuss a next-generation compound—linaprazan glurate—designed to address these unmet needs. By providing a longer and more controlled suppression of gastric acid than traditional PPIs, this competitive, reversible inhibitor holds promise for patients whose symptoms or erosions persist despite standard therapy. With a Phase 2 study completed and Phase 3 on the horizon, linaprazan glurate could mark a turning point for those in search of more consistent relief.

Curious to Learn More?

Join us in this conversation hosted by Martina Ribar Hestericová, for the full story about the science behind acid reflux, challenges in clinical development, and how a novel therapy like linaprazan glurate may reshape the future of GERD treatment.


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KEY TERMS:

Proton pumps are enzymes in stomach parietal cells responsible for secreting gastric acid. Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) is a medication that blocks these enzymes, reducing acid production.

The time it takes for a drug’s concentration in the bloodstream to be reduced by half is known as it’s plasma half-life. For many PPIs, a short plasma half-life limits their effectiveness over a full 24-hour cycle.

A compound that undergoes metabolic conversion—often during absorption or in the bloodstream—before becoming pharmacologically active is a prodrug. Linaprazan glurate is converted into its active form—linaprazan—through metabolic processes, including cleavage by esterases.

Erosions are localized areas of tissue damage in the esophagus, often caused by prolonged exposure to stomach acid in GERD.

Regurgitation is a sensation or action where stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus, contributing to discomfort and heartburn.

Past Episodes

Season 3
Season 2
Season 1