naked plasmid encoding human hepatocyte growth factor

Naked plasmid encoding human hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a non-viral gene therapy modality designed to promote therapeutic angiogenesis in ischemic tissues. The specific drug described in clinical development is NL003 (also known as sedumingene or Sedomingji), developed by Beijing Northland Biotech. NL003 consists of a recombinant plasmid DNA (pUDK-HGF) that encodes the full-length human HGF gene. Upon intramuscular injection into the ischemic limb, the plasmid transfects local muscle cells, leading to the transient expression and secretion of HGF protein. HGF is a multifunctional growth factor that activates the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway, promoting the formation of new collateral blood vessels, improving blood perfusion, and facilitating tissue repair. This therapy is primarily intended for patients with severe lower limb ischemia (chronic limb-threatening ischemia, CLTI) who are not candidates for traditional surgical or endovascular revascularization. NL003 has completed Phase III clinical trials (the HOPE-CLTI studies) in China, demonstrating potential in relieving ischemic rest pain and promoting the healing of ischemic ulcers.

Brand names

Sedomingji塞多明基

Other names

sedumingenerecombinant human hepatocyte growth factor naked plasmid injectionSedumingene injection