What is the drug thought to do in the body?
VHB937 is a drug that targets a type of cell called microglia. Microglia are immune cells in the nervous system that respond to infection or injury and remove any damaged or dead cells. Microglia have proteins on their surface and one of these is called TREM2, which when active can make microglia more protective to other cells such as motor neurons. VHB937 is designed to interact with TREM2 on microglia in the hopes of it supporting the health of motor neurons. Previous research has shown that VHB937 can increase the activity of TREM2 present on the surface of microglia, improve how well the microglia can remove dead and damaged cells, and improve survival of neurons.
Phase 2 Trial - ASTRALS
Current status: Recruiting
Primary objective: The trial aims to investigate if taking VHB937 affects how long it takes before participants need permanent help from a machine to breathe (ventilation). They will also investigate whether taking VHB937 improves a participant’s ability to perform daily activities, measured by the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis functional rating scale-revised (ALSFRS-R).
Participants will be randomised to receive either VHB937 or placebo (dummy drug) for 40 weeks. The trial is double blinded, meaning that neither the participants or the researchers will know who is receiving VHB937 and who is receiving placebo. After 40 weeks, participants will have the opportunity to take part in an open label extension where all participants will receive the drug for a period of time. You can find out more about the trial here.
The trial is recruiting adults in Texas, USA only.
Previous Clinical Trials
Phase 1 trial
The phase 1 trial showed that VHB937 was safe and well tolerated at multiple doses in 64 healthy adults. They also found that VHB937 interacted with TREM2 and indicates microglia could potentially protect neurons from damage.
Last updated: 08/04/2025