Genflow Biosciences PLC (LSE:GENF, OTCQB:GENFF), the London-listed longevity company, has reached a key milestone in its effort to see whether a human gene linked to long life can slow ageing in dogs.
The company said its experimental SIRT6 gene therapy, based on a version found in people who live beyond 100, had been safely given for the second time to a group of elderly beagles with no signs of side effects.
The study involves 28 dogs aged ten and above and is due to finish in January 2026.
The trial is designed to test whether the SIRT6 gene can help cells repair DNA and regulate metabolism, both of which tend to deteriorate with age.
The dogs are divided into two groups, with some receiving different versions of the therapy while others remain untreated. Genflow said that after the second round of treatment, the therapy continued to show an excellent safety profile.
The SIRT6 gene, sourced from human centenarians, is believed to play an important role in maintaining cellular health.
Genflow hopes that proving its safety and efficacy in animals will demonstrate the wider potential of its platform for both veterinary and human applications.
The company, which is the only publicly listed longevity business in Europe, said the results strengthen confidence in its gene therapy platform and its ability to extend healthy lifespan.
Success in animals could also open a new commercial market in animal health, a global industry worth billions of dollars that covers both pets and livestock.
Dr Eric Leire, Genflow’s chief executive, said: “We’re very encouraged by the continued safety validation of our SIRT6 therapy and by the strong engagement we’re seeing from established players in the animal health industry.
"The animal health market represents an attractive near-term commercial opportunity for Genflow, complementing our core human longevity programmes while showcasing the broader potential of our gene therapy platform.”
With repeat dosing now confirmed as safe, Genflow plans to move forward with the next stage of its animal health research and explore partnerships with larger industry players.
The company said it remained focused on using gene-based treatments to extend both health and lifespan, starting with animals before progressing to human applications.