AskBio’s Gene Therapy Programs Earn Japan’s SAKIGAKE Designation: What It Means for Parkinson’s and Heart Failure Treatment

AskBio’s Gene Therapy Programs Earn Japan’s SAKIGAKE Designation: What It Means for Parkinson’s and Heart Failure Treatment

By, Admin 11 December 2025

Japan has taken a major step toward accelerating access to next-generation gene therapies. AskBio, a subsidiary of Bayer AG, has received the Pioneering Regenerative Medical Product (SAKIGAKE) designation from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for two investigational therapies, AB-1005 for Parkinson’s disease and AB-1002 for non-ischemic heart failure. This designation signals high innovation, strong clinical potential, and the ability to address urgent unmet needs.

Why the SAKIGAKE Designation Matters?

SAKIGAKE status is awarded to breakthrough therapies with new mechanisms of action and promising early data. It offers:

  • Priority regulatory consultations
  • Accelerated review timelines
  • Earlier access for patients with severe conditions

For AskBio, this recognition strengthens its global regulatory momentum and reinforces its focus on advancing therapies that target disease at the root level.

AB-1005: A New Path Forward for Parkinson’s Disease

AB-1005 delivers the GDNF gene using an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector.
The goal is simple but ambitious: restore neuronal function and possibly slow disease progression.

Where the Program Stands?

  • Currently in Phase II REGENERATE-PD
  • Targets moderate-stage Parkinson’s disease
  • Uses convection-enhanced delivery for precise gene placement
  • Previously earned US FDA RMAT, FDA Fast Track, and UK MHRA Innovation Passport designations

Why It Matters for Parkinson’s Care?

Parkinson’s disease affects over 10 million people worldwide and offers no cure.
Current therapies only manage symptoms. AB-1005 aims to protect dopaminergic neurons and address the underlying degeneration.

AB-1002: A One-Time Gene Therapy for Heart Failure

AB-1002 is designed for adults with NYHA Class III non-ischemic heart failure, one of the world’s most burdensome chronic diseases.

How the Therapy Works?

The therapy uses an AAV vector to deliver a modified I-1c protein, which blocks protein phosphatase 1. The goal: improve cardiac function and reduce symptoms with one targeted dose.

Clinical Progress to Date

  • Previously granted FDA Fast Track designation
  • Phase I data showed no therapy-related adverse events
  • Participants experienced meaningful improvements in cardiac function
  • Full Phase I results published in Nature Medicine (2025)
  • Phase II GenePHIT trial now enrolling across the U.S. and Europe

Japan Recognizes the Global Potential

Bayer and AskBio view these designations as a pivotal step in expanding global access to advanced gene therapy.

“Receiving the designation in Japan marks a major milestone,” said Christian Rommel of Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals Division. “It reinforces our shared commitment to delivering breakthrough science worldwide.”

With SAKIGAKE status, Japan becomes a leading region in supporting innovative treatments for severe neurological and cardiovascular diseases.

A Look Ahead: What This Means for Patients

Both AB-1005 and AB-1002 remain investigational and unapproved. Yet early data is promising, and the SAKIGAKE designation accelerates the path forward.

If successful, these therapies could:

  • Offer one-time treatment options
  • Slow or modify disease progression
  • Expand access to advanced care for Parkinson’s and heart failure
  • Shift the therapeutic landscape through gene-based intervention

AskBio continues to advance a broad pipeline across CNS, cardiovascular, and other disease areas—driving gene therapy toward mainstream adoption.

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