Therapeutics: Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 α (HIF1A; HIF1-α)

Mouse studies suggest inhibiting HIF1A could help treat trauma-induced and genetic forms of heterotopic ossification. In mouse models of burn- or tendon surgery-induced ossification, a tool compound that inhibits HIF1A decreased heterotopic ossification compared with vehicle. In a genetic neonatal mouse model of heterotopic ossification, the compound decreased ectopic bone formation at ankle joints. Next steps could include testing HIF1A inhibitors in the models.

Bayer AG and Amgen Inc. have BAY 87-2243, an HIF1A inhibitor, in Phase I testing to treat cancer...