An Innovative Technology Platform

We are developing and intend to commercialize the ZrSi technology platform, a portfolio of innovative, non-systemic and selective oral sorbents designed to remove excess potassium, ammonium, urea and phosphate from the stomach and lower intestines in a safe and well tolerated manner.  Our lead product candidate, ZS-9, is a unique oral sorbent technology that will provide hyperkalemic patients with better healthcare outcomes, improved quality of life and enhanced patient compliance. 

Our ZrSi technology platform is customizable - we can modulate product dimensions and ionic charge, which provides molecular "loading" flexibility and ion exchange.  ZS-9 has demonstrated powerful potassium binding capacity in the presence of other ions (Ca/Mg) as well as ammonium removal. In addition, the ZrSi crystal is stable, non-toxic and non-soluble (non-systemically absorbed), and thus will not break down in the body and result in adverse reactions.  Recently completed studies have shown the product to have a great tolerability profile. 

A significant competitive advantage of ZS-9 is that the crystal’s unique framework allows it to selectively discriminate against unwanted ionic exchanges while targeting specific ions for removal such as potassium. The ZrSi technology does not result in the unwanted removal of beneficial ions important to the overall health of the patient (such as calcium and magnesium). A major problem with current oral sorbents is that as the exchange resins progress through the body, other ions with a stronger ionic charge displace toxins such as potassium from the resin allowing the potassium ion to be absorbed back into the body.  This has traditionally resulted in marginal net reductions in systemic potassium levels.  Unfortunately, other essential minerals needed by the patient are inadvertently removed.

We anticipate that the initial indication for ZS-9 will be for the treatment of acute hyperkalemia, while a parallel development program will target the treatment of chronic hyperkalemia.  We intend to pursue regulatory approvals in all global hyperkalemia markets (acute / chronic / renal) shortly following US approvals as well as additional indications for other toxic conditions including hyperammonemia and hyperphosphatemia.