Promising data from a pivotal Phase 3 trial of the investigational heart-attack drug zalunfiban (Disaggpro™) were presented during the late-breaking sessions at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in New Orleans. The study, known as CeleBrate, met its primary efficacy and safety endpoints in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).
The program received support from the Harrington Discovery Institute at University Hospitals, a philanthropic organization focused on advancing academic discoveries into new medicines.
A Next-Generation Emergency Antiplatelet Option
Zalunfiban is a next-generation GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor designed specifically for use by first responders and emergency room clinicians. The drug targets the platelet GPIIb/IIIa receptor, reducing clot formation or helping reopen blocked arteries.
It is delivered via subcutaneous injection, and its antiplatelet effects dissipate within two hours, a feature intended to minimize interference with later interventional procedures.
Academic Discovery Advanced Toward Clinical Use
The lead inventor, Barry Coller, MD, vice president for medical affairs and physician-in-chief at The Rockefeller University, co-founded CeleCor and helped guide the molecule from discovery to clinical testing.
Dr. Coller received the Harrington Discovery Institute’s physician-scientist award in 2015, which provided expert drug-development guidance, grant support, and strategic input—including decisions on administration route and early reimbursement planning.
“These contributions were instrumental in attracting new funding and advancing this medication into clinical trials,” Dr. Coller said.
Harrington Discovery Institute’s Broader Impact
Since its founding, the organization has supported:
- 217 drug programs in development
- 74 academic institutions
- 43 company launches
- 23 clinical candidates
- 15 licensing agreements
“Our mission is to propel promising academic discoveries into medicines for patients,” said Jonathan S. Stamler, MD, President and Co-Founder of Harrington Discovery Institute. “Dr. Coller’s work exemplifies that mission.”
Inside the CeleBrate Study
CeleBrate was a pivotal Phase 3, randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluating a single subcutaneous dose of zalunfiban in STEMI patients treated before hospital arrival or in emergency departments.
Key details include:
- 2,467 patients enrolled
- 45 sites across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Europe
Prospective, blinded study design focused on rapid treatment in acute cardiac events
