We are evaluating TNX-103.

TNX-103 is an oral formulation of levosimendan, a novel, first-in-class potassium-ATP channel activator and calcium sensitizer to treat PH-HFpEF (pulmonary hypertension due to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction).

Patients with PH-HFpEF suffer from chronic elevation and backward transmission of left-sided filling pressures that lead to increases in pulmonary venous pressure and, ultimately, increased pulmonary artery pressure. This knowledge has led to strategies to reduce venous blood volume by targeting splanchnic (abdominal) venous circulation which regulates venous return. Recent research has revealed that directly controlling splanchnic blood volume and reducing blood flow to the left ventricle have desirable and immediate effects on favorably reducing pressures in these patients.

Tenax is developing an oral therapy that would replicate these effects.

Levosimendan acts through a unique, first-in-class mechanism that is mediated by potassium-ATP channel activation. Potassium-ATP channels control the vascular tone (state of constriction and dilation) of the arteries and veins throughout the body. Levosimendan has demonstrated a potent and specific dilatory effect on the veins of the splanchnic circulation, which serves as a reservoir of blood supply for the heart when demand increases. Through this mechanism, levosimendan has the potential to lower elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) that is the hallmark of PH-HFpEF.

Watch a panel discussion with key opinion leaders as they explore the scientific rationale for using levosimendan in PH-HFpEF.