Methods to reduce Z-AAT protein levels

Abstract

To provide a method for reducing the level of liver Z-AAT protein in human subjects with a Z-type mutation in AATD. [Solution] This invention describes a method for reducing the level of hepatic Z-AAT protein in human subjects having the PiZZ genotype of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) using a pharmaceutical composition containing an AAT RNAi agent. The pharmaceutical composition containing an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, when administered to human subjects having the PiZZ mutation, reduces the level of hepatic Z-AAT protein, including both soluble and insoluble Z-AAT protein. Such reduction may lead to the treatment of liver diseases associated with AAT deficiency, such as chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, hypertransaminasemia, cholestasis, fibrosis, fulminant hepatic failure, and other liver-related diseases.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications This PCT application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 078,658, filed Sep. 15, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 180,487, filed Apr. 27, 2021. Both of the provisional applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] Reference to electronically submitted sequence listing The content of the sequence listing submitted electronically in an ASCII text file (name: 3817_084PC02_SequenceListing.txt, size: 5,721 bytes, and creation date: Sep. 12, 2021) filed together with this application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Disclosed herein is a method of reducing the level of hepatic Z - AAT protein in a human subject having the Z - type mutation of alpha - 1 - antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) using a pharmaceutical composition comprising an RNA interference (RNAi) agent that inhibits the expression of the alpha - 1 - antitrypsin gene.

Background Art

[0004] Alpha - 1 - antitrypsin (AAT, α1 - antitrypsin, or A1AT) is a protease inhibitor belonging to the serpin superfamily encoded in humans by the SERPINA1 gene. Normal AAT protein is a plasma glycoprotein protease inhibitor that is mainly synthesized in the liver by hepatocytes and secreted into the blood. The known physiological function of AAT is to inhibit neutrophil proteases, which serves to protect host tissues from non - specific damage during inflammation.

[0005] AATD is an autosomal codominant genetic disorder characterized by low blood levels of AAT, leading to early lung disease in adults and liver disease in children and adults. The prevalence of AATD ranges from approximately 1 in 1,500 to 1 in 5,000 people, with the highest incidence among people of European descent.

[0006] The most clinically significant and severe form of AATD is caused by homozygosity of a Z-type mutation (called the PiZZ genotype) in which the single nucleotide polymorphism encoding glutamate is replaced with lysine at position 342 of the mature protein (Glu342Lys). The Z-type mutant allele, a single-point mutation, makes the mutant Z-type AAT protein ("Z-AAT protein") prone to misfolding, leading to its intracellular retention in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of hepatocytes. Other, rarer mutations also result in misfolded and accumulated proteins in hepatocytes. Mutant Z-AAT protein monomers can accumulate polymer aggregates, sometimes called "microspheres." Polymeric Z-AAT puts pressure on the ER, triggering a continuous cycle of hepatocyte damage and recovery, leading to an increased risk of fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, a lack of serum antiprotease activity leaves the lungs vulnerable to neutrophil elastase damage, particularly in cases of pneumonia, leading to the development of respiratory complications such as emphysema or other lung diseases.

[0007] Patients with the homozygous PiZZ genotype have an extreme deficiency of functional AAT. Weekly AAT augmentation therapy using purified human AAT can help prevent lung damage in affected patients. Examples of such formulations currently on the market include PROLASTIN®-C, PROLASTIN®, GLASSIA®, ARALAST® NP, and ZEMAIRA®. However, while administration of purified AAT may help improve or prevent lung damage caused by a lack or low level of endogenously secreted AAT, AATD patients (those with AAT mutations resulting in polymer formation) remain susceptible to endoplasmic reticulum hepatic storage, caused by excessive deposition and accumulation of misfolded AAT proteins. The accumulation of Z-AAT protein in hepatocytes in a "microglobule" conformation is a well-known histological feature of AATD liver disease and is thought to be linked to proteotoxic effects that contribute to hepatocyte damage and death, as well as the induction of liver damage, including chronic liver injury, in AATD patients (see, for example, D. Lindblad et al., Hepatology 2007, 46:1228-1235). Null / null patients who do not produce AAT develop severe lung disease but have been reported to have normal liver morphology, providing evidence that the accumulation of mutant AAT, rather than the absence of AAT in the blood, leads to liver disease (Feldman, G. et al, The Ultrastructure of Hepatocytes in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency with genotype Pi_, Gut. 1975;16:796-799).

[0008] AATD increases the risk of liver disease in children and adults, and early-onset emphysema in adults. Patients with AATD often develop liver disease, which can be severe or fatal even in childhood. Some AATD patients may evade detection in the early stages of the disease, but eventually fibrosis accumulates, leading to clinically apparent liver disease. Clinical manifestations of liver damage include chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, an increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, hypertransaminases, cholestasis, fibrosis, and even fulminant hepatic failure.

[0009] The accumulation of the Z-AAT protein in hepatocytes has been clearly identified as a cause of progressive liver disease in patients with AATD. Elimination of the accumulation of the mutant protein in hepatocytes may halt the progression of liver disease. Removal of this mutant protein damage may also allow for the regression of existing fibrosis. Currently, there are no clinically approved therapies for preventing the onset, delaying the progression, or otherwise treating liver disease caused by AATD.

[0010] RNAi agents are emerging as a promising treatment option for patients with AATD. The method of administration is a crucial consideration when treating AATD with RNAi agents. Low-frequency dosing is important for patients, leading to improved medication adherence, and lower doses may also be advantageous for the overall safety profile of the drug. Therefore, low-dose, low-frequency approaches are needed for the treatment of AATD. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0011] Described herein are methods for reducing the level of hepatic Z-AAT protein in human subjects having a Z-type mutation in AATD. In one embodiment, the method comprises administering a pharmaceutical composition (i.e., an AAT RNAi active ingredient, also referred to herein as ADS-001, or a salt thereof) comprising the compositions described in Table 2 to a human subject in doses of approximately 5 mg to approximately 300 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient (e.g., ADS-001, or a salt thereof), where the pharmaceutical composition is administered, for example, subcutaneously, with administration intervals of, for example, approximately one month or approximately four weeks. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition used in the methods disclosed herein comprises, consists of, or is essentially derived from, the formulated AAT RNAi active ingredient (also referred to herein as ADS-001-1, or a salt thereof) described in Table 3.1 or the formulations of Table 3.2 (also referred to herein as ADS-001-2). As used herein, depending on the context, the terms “about” or “approximately” mean within 5% of a given value or range, for example, within 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, or 1%.

[0012] Furthermore, this specification describes a method for reducing the level of Z-AAT liver protein in human subjects having a Z-type mutation in AATD, the method comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 to the human subject in a dose of approximately 5 mg to approximately 200 mg, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered, for example, subcutaneously, with an administration interval of, for example, at least approximately one month (i.e., once every month).

[0013] Further described herein are methods for treating AATD in human subjects requiring treatment, the methods comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 to the human subject in doses of approximately 5 mg to approximately 300 mg, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered, for example, subcutaneously, with an interval of, for example, approximately 3 months (i.e., every 3 months).

[0014] Similarly described herein are methods for treating AATD in human subjects requiring treatment, the methods comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 to the human subject in doses of approximately 5 mg to approximately 200 mg, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered, for example, subcutaneously, with an interval of, for example, approximately 3 months (i.e., every 3 months).

[0015] This specification describes a method for treating AATD in human subjects requiring treatment, the method comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 to the human subject in doses of approximately 5 mg to approximately 300 mg, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered, for example, subcutaneously, with the first dose followed by, for example, a second dose approximately 4 weeks or 1 month later, and thereafter the interval between doses is, for example, approximately 3 months.

[0016] This specification describes a method for treating AATD in human subjects requiring treatment, the method comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 to the human subject in doses of approximately 5 mg to approximately 200 mg, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered, for example, subcutaneously, with an initial dose followed by, for example, a second dose approximately one month later, and thereafter, the interval between doses is, for example, approximately three months.

[0017] In some embodiments, the dose of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) administered in each dose is, for example, about 25 mg to about 200 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) administered in each dose is about 100 mg to about 200 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) administered in each dose is about 100 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) administered in each dose is about 200 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient administered in each dose is 200 mg or less.

[0018] The therapeutic methods disclosed herein can delay or halt the progression of liver disease in human subjects having AATD, thereby enabling the repair of fibrous tissue. In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein can treat AATD-related liver disease, including fibrosis, cirrhosis, increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, chronic hepatitis, hypertransaminasemia, cholestasis, fulminant hepatic failure, and other liver-related conditions and diseases caused by AATD. In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein can prevent AATD-related liver disease, delay its onset, or improve its symptoms, complications, and / or sequelae.

[0019] By administering a pharmaceutical composition containing an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) to a human subject, the expression of the alpha-1 antitrypsin gene in the subject can be inhibited. In some embodiments, the subject is a human who has been previously diagnosed with AATD.

[0020] Another aspect of the present invention provides the use of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 for the treatment of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) in human subjects requiring treatment thereof, the use comprising administering to the subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 at a dose of approximately 5 mg to approximately 300 mg of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered once a month, for example, by subcutaneous injection.

[0021] Another aspect of the present invention provides the use of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 for the treatment of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) in human subjects requiring treatment thereof, the use comprising administering to the subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) listed in Table 2 at a dose of approximately 5 mg to approximately 300 mg of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered, for example, by subcutaneous injection once every three months.

[0022] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method for reducing the level of hepatic Z-AAT protein in human subjects having the alpha-1 antitrypsin PiZZ genotype, the method comprising: (i) administering to the subject an initial dose of a pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient described in Table 2, at a dose of approximately 5 mg to approximately 300 mg of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient; (ii) administering to the subject a second dose of the pharmaceutical composition approximately 4 weeks or approximately 1 month after the initial dose; and (iii) administering to the subject a third dose of the pharmaceutical composition approximately 12 weeks or approximately 3 months after the second dose, wherein these doses are administered by subcutaneous injection.

[0023] In some embodiments, the dose of the AAT RNAi API is approximately 25 mg to approximately 300 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of the AAT RNAi API is approximately 25 mg to approximately 200 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of the AAT RNAi API is approximately 100 mg to approximately 200 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of the AAT RNAi API is approximately 100 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of the AAT RNAi API is approximately 200 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of the AAT RNAi API is approximately 200 mg or less. In some embodiments, the level of soluble liver Z-AAT protein decreases. In some embodiments, the level of insoluble liver Z-AAT protein decreases. In some embodiments, the levels of both insoluble and soluble liver Z-AAT protein decrease.

[0024] In some embodiments, the method further includes administering a further dose after the third dose, which is then administered approximately every 12 weeks or every 3 months. In some embodiments, the level of liver Z-AAT protein decreases within 6 months of the initial dose. In some embodiments, the level of liver Z-AAT protein decreases within approximately 1 year of the initial dose. In some embodiments, the level of Z-AAT protein decreases after only three doses of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient. In some embodiments, the liver shows no worsening of fibrosis or shows improvement. In some embodiments, liver enzymes ALT (alanine aminotransferase), GGT (gamma-glutamyltransferase), or both decrease. In some embodiments, the fibrosis marker Pro-C3 decreases. In some embodiments, portal venous hepatitis decreases. In some embodiments, non-invasive measurements of liver stiffness by transient elastography (FIBROSCAN®) improve.

[0025] In some embodiments, the subject is further administered an additional therapeutic agent for the treatment of AATD. In some embodiments, the subject is further administered a therapeutic agent for the treatment of lung injury, emphysema, or other lung diseases or disorders caused by a deficiency in endogenously secreted AAT protein. In some embodiments, the additional therapeutic agent comprises a human AAT protein, purified human alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor, or recombinant AAT protein.

[0026] In some embodiments, a pharmaceutical composition comprising the AAT RNAi prodrug described in Table 2 is packaged in a kit, container, pack, dispenser, prefilled syringe, or vial. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises, consists of, or consists essentially of a formulated AAT RNAi prodrug described in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2. In some embodiments, the administration of one or more doses of the pharmaceutical composition is performed by the subject. In some embodiments, the administration of one or more doses of the pharmaceutical composition is performed by a medical professional. In some embodiments, the subject is an adult.

[0027] The present disclosure also provides a method for treating AATD in a human subject having the PiZZ genotype of alpha-1 antitrypsin, the method comprising: (i) administering to the subject an initial dose of a pharmaceutical composition comprising the AAT RNAi prodrug described in Table 2 at a dose of about 5 mg to about 300 mg of the AAT RNAi prodrug; (ii) administering to the subject a second dose of the pharmaceutical composition about 4 weeks or about 1 month after the initial dose; and (iii) administering to the subject a third dose of the pharmaceutical composition about 12 weeks or about 3 months after the second dose, wherein these administrations are performed by subcutaneous injection. In some embodiments, the condition or disease caused by AATD is a liver disease. In some embodiments, the liver disease is chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, hypertransaminasemia, cholestasis, fibrosis, or fulminant hepatic failure. In some embodiments, the dose of the AAT RNAi prodrug is about 100 mg to about 200 mg. In some embodiments, the dose of the AAT RNAi prodrug is about 200 mg or less.

[0028] In some aspects of the methods disclosed herein, the level of monomeric (soluble) hepatic Z-AAT protein decreases. In some aspects, the level of insoluble hepatic Z-AAT protein decreases. In some aspects, both the level of insoluble hepatic Z-AAT protein and the level of soluble hepatic Z-AAT protein decrease. In some aspects of the methods for treating AATD in a human subject having the PiZZ genotype of alpha-1 antitrypsin disclosed herein, the method further comprises administering further doses after the third dose, the further doses being administered at about 12-week intervals or about 3-month intervals thereafter. In some aspects, the level of the hepatic Z-AAT protein decreases within about 6 months from the first dose. In some aspects, the level of the hepatic Z-AAT protein decreases within about 1 year from the first dose. In some aspects, the level of the Z-AAT protein decreases after administration of only 3 doses of the AAT RNAi prodrug.

[0029] In some aspects of the methods disclosed herein, administration of a pharmaceutical composition comprising the AAT RNAi prodrug (ADS-001) described in Table 2 to a human subject results in (i) a decrease in fibrosis, (ii) a decrease in the level of periportal hepatocytes, (iii) a decrease in serum Z-AAT, (iv) a decrease in total hepatic Z-AAT, (v) a decrease in soluble hepatic Z-AAT, (vi) a decrease in insoluble hepatic Z-AAT, (vii) a decrease in ALT, (viii) a decrease in GGT, (ix) a decrease in Pro-C3, (x) a histological improvement in steatosis, or (xi) a combination thereof.

[0030] In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT is at least about 70%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT is about 70% to about 100%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT is about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 97%, or about 99%. In some embodiments, the decrease in whole liver Z-AAT is at least about 70%. In some embodiments, the decrease in whole liver Z-AAT is about 70% to about 100%. In some embodiments, the decrease in whole liver Z-AAT is about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 97%, or about 99%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT is at least about 50%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT is about 50% to about 97%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT is about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95%. In some embodiments, the decrease in insoluble liver Z-AAT is at least about 40%. In some embodiments, the decrease in insoluble liver Z-AAT is about 40% to about 97%. In some embodiments, the decrease in insoluble liver Z-AAT is about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT is at least about 30%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT is about 30% to about 75%. In some embodiments, the ALT reduction is about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, or about 70%. In some embodiments, the GGT reduction is at least about 25%. In some embodiments, the GGT reduction is about 25% to about 85%. In some embodiments, the GGT reduction is about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, or about 80%. In some embodiments, the fibrosis reduction is at least about 15%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the fibrosis reduction is about 15% to about 90%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®.In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis, as measured by FIBROSCAN®, is about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, or about 85%. In some embodiments, the reduction in Pro-C3 is at least about 15%. In some embodiments, the reduction in Pro-C3 is about 15% to about 90%. In some embodiments, the human subject has histological improvement in steatosis. In some embodiments, the reduction in Pro-C3 is about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, or about 85%. In some embodiments, administration of a pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) described in Table 2 to a human subject results in improvement of fibrosis, portal venitis, interface hepatitis, pan-portal lesions, PAS+D zone location, zone 1 "microglobule" periportal lesions, or any combination thereof.

[0031] All of the above changes are relative to a predetermined threshold, the level in a subject before administration of the AAT RNAi drug, the level in a subject not administered the AAT RNAi drug, or a control level measured in a population. Measurements of fibrosis, periportal hepatocytes, serum Z-AAT, hepatic Z-AAT, soluble hepatic Z-AAT, insoluble hepatic Z-AAT, ALT, GGT, Pro-C3, or steatosis are performed as described in this disclosure or using methods known in the art.

[0032] Other objects, features, embodiments, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the embodiments for carrying out the invention described below, the accompanying drawings, and the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0033] [Figure 1A]The chemical structure representation of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient shown in the sodium salt form, as described in Table 2 (referred to herein as ADS-001; i.e., an AAT RNAi agent conjugated to a target-directed tridentate N-acetyl-galactosamine group at the 5' end of the sense strand). [Figure 1B] The chemical structure representation of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient shown in the sodium salt form, as described in Table 2 (referred to herein as ADS-001; i.e., an AAT RNAi agent conjugated to a target-directed tridentate N-acetyl-galactosamine group at the 5' end of the sense strand). [Figure 1C] The chemical structure representation of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient shown in the sodium salt form, as described in Table 2 (referred to herein as ADS-001; i.e., an AAT RNAi agent conjugated to a target-directed tridentate N-acetyl-galactosamine group at the 5' end of the sense strand). [Figure 1D] The chemical structure representation of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient shown in the sodium salt form, as described in Table 2 (referred to herein as ADS-001; i.e., an AAT RNAi agent conjugated to a target-directed tridentate N-acetyl-galactosamine group at the 5' end of the sense strand). [Figure 1E] The chemical structure representation of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient shown in the sodium salt form, as described in Table 2 (referred to herein as ADS-001; i.e., an AAT RNAi agent conjugated to a target-directed tridentate N-acetyl-galactosamine group at the 5' end of the sense strand). [Figure 2A] Chemical structural representations of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients listed in Table 2, shown in their free acid form. [Figure 2B] Chemical structural representations of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients listed in Table 2, shown in their free acid form. [Figure 2C] Chemical structural representations of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients listed in Table 2, shown in their free acid form. [Figure 2D] Chemical structural representations of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients listed in Table 2, shown in their free acid form. [Figure 2E] Chemical structural representations of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients listed in Table 2, shown in their free acid form. [Figure 3]Schematic diagrams of the modified sense and antisense strands of the AAT RNAi drug substance (referred to herein as ADS-001, i.e., an AAT RNAi agent conjugated to a target-directed tridentate N-acetyl-galactosamine group at the 5' end of the sense strand) listed in Table 2. In Figure 3, the following abbreviations are used: a, c, g, and u are 2'-O-methyl modified nucleotides; Af, Cf, Gf, and Uf are 2'-fluoro (also called 2'-deoxy-2'-fluoro in the art) modified nucleotides; o is a phosphodiester bond; s is a phosphorothioate bond; invAb is an inverted debase residue or subunit; and (NAG37)s is a target-directed tridentate N-acetyl-galactosamine ligand having the following chemical structure: [ka] (Shown in sodium salt form), or [ka] (Shown in free acid form). [Figure 4] The final Phase I study design and Phase I clinical trial dose escalation schedule described in Example 2. [Figure 5] Graphs showing serum AAT levels in healthy human volunteers (NHV) who received placebo (all cohorts) or 35 mg of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (cohort 1) from the Phase I clinical trial described in Example 2. The "active substance" shown in Figures 5-11 refers to the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient listed in Table 2 (administered as the formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient listed in Table 3.1). [Figure 6] A graph showing serum AAT levels in NHV patients who received either placebo (entire cohort) or a single 100 mg dose of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (cohort 2b) from the Phase I clinical trial described in Example 2. [Figure 7] A graph showing serum AAT levels in NHV patients who received either placebo (all cohorts) or a single 200 mg dose of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (cohort 3b) from the Phase I clinical trial described in Example 2. [Figure 8] A graph showing serum AAT levels in NHV patients who received either placebo (all cohorts) or a single 300 mg dose of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (cohort 4b) from the Phase I clinical trial described in Example 2. [Figure 9] A graph showing serum AAT levels in NHV patients who received either placebo (all cohorts) or three 100 mg doses of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (cohort 2) once monthly from the Phase I clinical trial described in Example 2. [Figure 10] A graph showing serum AAT levels in NHV patients who received either placebo (all cohorts) or three doses of 200 mg of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient administered once a month (cohort 3) from the Phase I clinical trial described in Example 2. [Figure 11] A graph showing serum AAT levels in NHV patients who received either placebo (all cohorts) or three 300 mg doses of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient administered once a month (cohort 4) from the Phase I clinical trial described in Example 2. [Figure 12] The Phase II clinical trial design and dose escalation schedule for the Phase II clinical trial described in Example 3. [Figure 13] Graph showing serum Z-AAT levels in subjects with the PiZZ genotype who received three 200 mg doses of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (Cohort 1) from the Phase II clinical trial described in Example 3. Downward arrows on the x-axis indicate the timing of administration. LLOQ: Limit of quantification. [Figure 14] Graph showing serum Z-AAT levels in subjects with the PiZZ genotype who received three 100 mg doses of the AAT RNAi drug (Cohort 2) from the Phase II clinical trial described in Example 3. Downward arrows on the x-axis indicate the timing of administration. LLOQ: Limit of Quantification. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] RNAi agents The methods described herein include the administration of a pharmaceutical composition to a human subject, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises an RNAi agent (referred to herein and in the art as an RNAi agent or RNAi trigger) capable of inhibiting the expression of the AAT gene, for example, a composition comprising ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, the methods described herein include the administration of a pharmaceutical composition to a human subject, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (also referred to as ADS-001 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof) as listed in Table 2. In the context of this disclosure, the terms “the salt thereof” and “the pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof” are considered equivalent and synonymous. As used herein, the terms “includes” and “comprises” may be used synonymously.

[0035] A composition suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein comprises an RNAi agent that inhibits the expression of the AAT gene in a human subject, and a target-directing moiety or target-directing group. In some embodiments, the RNAi agent comprises a nucleotide sequence shown in Tables 1.1 and 1.2, e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide of SEQ ID NO: 2 and a sense oligonucleotide of SEQ ID NO: 4, wherein the sense strand of the RNAi agent, e.g., the sense oligonucleotide of SEQ ID NO: 4, is further ligated or conjugated to a target-directing group comprising three target-directing N-acetyl-galactosamine moieties (see, e.g., Table B). The RNAi agent that inhibits the expression of the AAT gene in a human subject is referred to as the “AAT RNAi agent.” The terms “ligated” and “conjugated” refer to a covalent bond between two moieties, e.g., the sense oligonucleotide of SEQ ID NO: 4 and a target-directing moiety (e.g., a target-directing asialoglycoprotein receptor moiety such as N-acetyl-galactosamine) (e.g., NAG37). In some embodiments, “conjugated” or “conjugated” refers to the binding of a target-directed moiety to an oligonucleotide sequence, for example, using a phosphoramidite compound containing one or more N-acetyl-galactosamine moieties, as a step in a solid-phase synthesis process (SPSS). In some embodiments, “conjugated” or “conjugated” refers to the covalent bonding of the sense oligonucleotide of SEQ ID NO: 4 to the target-directed moiety (e.g., a target-directed asialoglycoprotein receptor moiety such as N-acetyl-galactosamine) (e.g., NAG37), for example, using a bifunctional reagent, as a separate step after SPSS. As used herein, the terms “conjugated” and “conjugated” are used synonymously.

[0036] Generally, AAT RNAi agents comprise a sense strand (also called a passenger strand) and an antisense strand (also called a guide strand), which are annealed to form a double helix. The AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein comprise RNA or RNA-like (e.g., chemically modified RNA) oligonucleotide molecules capable of sequence-specifically reducing or inhibiting the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts of AAT mRNA. The AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein may act through RNA interference mechanisms (i.e., inducing RNA interference through interaction with the RNA interference pathway mechanism (RNA-induced silencing complex or RISC) in mammalian cells) or through any alternative mechanism(s) or pathway(s). While AAT RNAi agents are considered to act primarily through RNA interference mechanisms as used herein, the RNAi agents disclosed herein are not constrained or limited to any particular pathway or mechanism of action. RNAi agents generally consist of a sense strand and an antisense strand, each 16 to 49 nucleotides long, and include, but are not limited to, short or small interfering RNA (siRNA), double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), microRNA (miRNA), small hairpin RNA (shRNA), and Dicer substrates.

[0037] The sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent is typically 16–49 nucleotides long, and the antisense strand of an AAT RNAi agent is typically 18–49 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the sense strand and antisense strand are independently 17–26 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the sense strand and antisense strand are independently 21–26 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the sense strand and antisense strand are independently 21–24 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, the sense strand and / or antisense strand are independently 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30 nucleotides long. In some embodiments, both the sense strand and the antisense strand are 21 nucleotides long. The sense strand and antisense strand may be the same length or of different lengths. The sense strand and antisense strand may also form overhanging nucleotides at one or both ends of the AAT RNAi agent.

[0038] AAT RNAi agents inhibit, silence, or knock down AAT gene expression. As used herein, the terms “silencing,” “reducing,” “inhibiting,” “downregulating,” or “knockdown” refer to AAT expression, meaning that the expression of the gene is reduced when the cell, cell population, tissue, organ, or subject is treated with the RNAi agent, compared to a second, untreated cell, cell population, tissue, organ, or subject, measured at the level of RNA transcribed from the gene, or at the level of polypeptides, proteins, or protein subunits translated from mRNA in the cell, cell population, tissue, organ, or subject from which the gene transcribes. In some cases, the reduction in gene expression is measured by comparing baseline levels of AAT mRNA or AAT protein in a human subject before administration of a composition containing the AAT RNAi agent to levels of AAT mRNA or AAT protein after treatment.

[0039] Inhibition, silencing, or knockdown of the AAT gene can be measured by any suitable assay or method known in the art. The non-limiting examples described herein, and the examples described in International Patent Application Publication WO2018 / 132432, which is incorporated herein by reference as a whole, provide certain examples of suitable assays for measuring AAT gene expression inhibition. A normal wild-type human reference AAT mRNA gene transcript (SERPINA1) (referred to as transcript variant 1; GenBank NM_000295.4) can be found in Sequence ID No. 1.

[0040] AAT RNAi agents suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein can be covalently bonded or conjugated to a target-directing group containing one or more N-acetyl-galactosamine moieties, for example, a liver target group containing a target-directing asialoglycoprotein receptor moiety such as N-acetyl-galactosamine. In embodiments, an AAT RNAi agent suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein is covalently bonded or conjugated to a target-directing group containing one or more N-acetyl-galactosamine moieties, thereby forming a double-stranded RNA (double-stranded RNA) containing the AAT RNAi drug substance described in Table 2, i.e., a sense strand of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand of SEQ ID NO: 2.

[0041] In some embodiments, the methods described herein involve the administration of a double-stranded RNA (DRNA) comprising the AAT RNAi drug substance listed in Table 2, i.e., the sense strand of SEQ ID NO: 6 and the antisense strand of SEQ ID NO: 2. The AAT RNAi drug substance listed in Table 2 includes the AAT RNAi agents shown in Table 1.1 (antisense strand of SEQ ID NO: 2) and Table 1.2 (sense strand of SEQ ID NO: 4). The N-acetyl-galactosamine moiety promotes the targeting of the AAT RNAi agent to asialoglycoprotein receptors (ASGPr) readily present on the surface of hepatocytes, thereby resulting in the internalization of the AAT RNAi agent by endocytosis or other means.

[0042] AAT RNAi agents suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein include an antisense strand having a region complementary to at least a portion of the AAT mRNA target sequence. AAT RNAi agents and AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein are described in International Patent Application Publication WO2018 / 132432, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety as stated above.

[0043] As used herein, the terms “sequence” and “nucleotide sequence” mean the order or sequence of nucleic acid bases or nucleotides, written as a sequence of letters using standard nomenclature. Unless otherwise specified, nucleotide sequences are written from left to right in the 5' to 3' direction. As used herein, the terms “nucleic acid base” and “nucleotide” have the same meanings as commonly understood in the art. Thus, as used herein, the term “nucleotide” refers to a glycoside comprising a sugar moiety, a base moiety, and a covalently bonded group (binding group), e.g., an internucleoside binding group of a phosphate or phosphorothioate, and encompasses naturally occurring nucleotides, e.g., DNA or RNA, and non-naturally occurring nucleotides, also called nucleotide analogs herein, which include modified sugar and / or base moieties. In this specification, a single nucleotide may be referred to as a monomer or unit.

[0044] As used herein, the term “complementary” when used to indicate the relationship between a first nucleotide sequence (e.g., the antisense strand of an RNAi agent) and a second nucleotide sequence (e.g., the sense strand or target mRNA sequence of an RNAi agent) means the ability of an oligonucleotide containing the first nucleotide sequence to hybridize (form hydrogen bonds of base pairs) with an oligonucleotide containing the second nucleotide sequence under mammalian physiological conditions (or other suitable conditions) to form a double-stranded or double-helical structure under certain standard conditions. Those skilled in the art will be able to select the optimal set of conditions for hybridization testing. Complementary sequences include Watson-Crick base pairs or non-Watson-Crick base pairs and include natural or modified nucleotides or nucleotide mimeographs to the extent that at least the hybridization requirements described above are met. Sequence identity or complementarity is independent of modification. For example, as defined herein, a and Af are complementary to U (or T) and identical to A in determining identity or complementarity.

[0045] As used herein, “fully complementary” or “sufficiently complementary” means that all (100%) of the bases in a contiguous sequence of the first oligonucleotide hybridize with the same number of nucleotides in a contiguous sequence of the second oligonucleotide. Such contiguous sequence may include all or part of the nucleotide sequence of the first or second oligonucleotide.

[0046] As used herein, “partially complementary” means that in a hybridized pair of nucleotide sequences, at least 70% of, but not all, of the bases in the contiguous sequence of the first oligonucleotide hybridize with the same number of bases in the contiguous sequence of the second polynucleotide.

[0047] As used herein, “substantially complementary” means that in a hybridized pair of nucleotide sequences, at least 85% of, but not all, of the bases in the contiguous sequence of the first oligonucleotide hybridize with the same number of bases in the contiguous sequence of the second polynucleotide. The terms “complementary,” “fully complementary,” “partially complementary,” and “substantially complementary” are used herein in relation to nucleotide matching between the sense and antisense strands of an RNAi agent, or between the antisense strand of an RNAi agent and the sequence of AAT mRNA.

[0048] As used herein, the terms “substantially identical” or “substantially identical” applied to nucleic acid sequences mean that a nucleic acid sequence contains a sequence with at least about 85% sequence identity with respect to a reference sequence, e.g., at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% identity. The percentage of sequence identity is determined by comparing two sequences that are optimally aligned across a comparison window. The percentage is calculated by measuring the number of positions where identical nucleic acid bases occur in both sequences to obtain the number of matching positions, dividing the number of matching positions by the total number of positions in the comparison window, and multiplying the result by 100 to obtain the percentage of sequence identity. The invention disclosed herein encompasses nucleotide sequences that are substantially identical to those disclosed herein.

[0049] The compounds described herein may contain several chiral centers and may exist in the form of optically pure enantiomers, mixtures of enantiomers, for example, racemates, mixtures of diastereoisomers, racemates of diastereoisomers, or mixtures of racemates of diastereoisomers. In some embodiments, the chiral center may be a chiral carbon atom.

[0050] The term “identical” or “identity” percentage in two or more nucleic acids refers to two or more sequences that are identical when compared and aligned for maximum match (with gaps introduced if necessary), without considering conservative substitutions as part of sequence identity, or two or more sequences that have a certain percentage of identical nucleotides. Identity percentages can be measured using sequence comparison software or algorithms, or by visual inspection. Various algorithms and software that can be used to obtain nucleotide sequence alignments are known in the art.

[0051] Sequence alignment can be performed using methods known in the art, such as MAFFT, Clustal (ClustalW, Clustal X, or Clustal Omega), and MUSCLE.

[0052] Different regions within a single polynucleotide target sequence aligning with a polynucleotide reference sequence may each have their own sequence identity percentage. It should be noted that sequence identity percentage values ​​are rounded to two decimal places. For example, 80.11, 80.12, 80.13, and 80.14 are rounded down to 80.1, while 80.15, 80.16, 80.17, 80.18, and 80.19 are rounded up to 80.2. It should also be noted that length values ​​are always integers.

[0053] In a particular embodiment, the identity percentage (%ID) of a first nucleic acid sequence to a second nucleic acid sequence is calculated as %ID = 100 × (Y / Z), where Y is the number of nucleic acid bases that scored as a perfect match in the alignment of the first and second sequences (either by visual inspection or by a specific sequence alignment program), and Z is the total number of residues in the second sequence. If the length of the first sequence is longer than that of the second sequence, the identity percentage of the first sequence to the second sequence is higher than the identity percentage of the second sequence to the first sequence.

[0054] Units, prefixes, and symbols are shown in the form recognized by the International System of Units (SI). Numerical ranges include the numerical values ​​that define the range. Where a range of values ​​is enumerated, it should be understood that each intervening integer value between the upper and lower limits of that enumerated range, and each fraction thereof, are also specifically disclosed along with each of the partial ranges between such values. The upper and lower limits of any range may be included in or excluded from that range independently, and each range that includes either the upper or lower limit, neither, or both is also included in this disclosure. Therefore, the ranges enumerated herein are understood to be an abbreviation of all values ​​within that range, including the enumerated endpoints. For example, the range 1 to 10 is understood to include any number, combination of numbers, or subrange from the group consisting of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10.

[0055] Where values ​​are explicitly enumerated, it is understood that values ​​of approximately the same quantity or amount as those enumerated are also included in the scope of this disclosure. Where combinations are disclosed, each of the partial combinations of the elements of that combination is also specifically disclosed and included in the scope of this disclosure. Conversely, where different elements or groups of elements are disclosed individually, those combinations are also disclosed. Where any element of a disclosure is disclosed with multiple options, examples of that disclosure in which each option is excluded, either individually or in any combination with other options, are also disclosed herein. Multiple elements of a disclosure may have such exclusions, and all combinations of elements having such exclusions are disclosed herein.

[0056] Inter-modified nucleotide and modified nucleoside bonding The AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, for example, dsRNAs targeting AAT mRNA transcripts, may be composed of modified nucleotides, which in humans can maintain the activity of the RNAi agent while simultaneously enhancing its serum stability and minimizing the possibility of activating interferon activity. As used herein, “modified nucleotides” are nucleotides other than ribonucleotides (2'-hydroxylnucleotides). In some embodiments, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or about 100% of the nucleotides are modified nucleotides. In some embodiments, about 50% to about 60%, about 60% to about 70%, about 70% to about 80%, about 80% to about 90%, about 90% to about 95%, or about 95% to about 100% of the nucleotide is a modified nucleotide. Modified nucleotides used herein include, but are not limited to, any known modified nucleotides known in the art, such as deoxyribonucleotides, nucleotide mimes, 2'-modified nucleotides, inverted nucleotides, modified nucleic acid base-containing nucleotides, cross-linked nucleotides, peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), 2',3'-seconucleotide mimes (unlocked nucleic acid base analogs), locked nucleotides, 3'-O-methoxy(2'-nucleoside-linked) nucleotides, 2'-F-arabinonucleotides, 5'-Me,2'-fluoronucleotides, morpholinonucleotides, vinyl phosphonate-containing nucleotides, and cyclopropylphosphonate-containing nucleotides. In some embodiments, the modified nucleotides of the AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are 2'-modified nucleotides (i.e., nucleotides having a group other than a hydroxyl group at the 2' position of a five-membered sugar ring).Examples of 2'-modified nucleotides include, but are not limited to, 2'-O-methylnucleotides, 2'-deoxy-2'-fluoronucleotides (commonly referred to simply as 2'-fluoronucleotides), 2'-deoxynucleotides, 2'-methoxyethyl (2'-O-2-methoxyethyl) nucleotides, 2'-aminonucleotides, and 2'-alkylnucleotides. Further 2'-modified nucleotides are known in the art. Not all nucleotides of a given RNAi agent need to be uniformly modified. Furthermore, multiple modifications can be incorporated into a single AAT RNAi agent, or even into a single nucleotide. The sense and antisense strands of an AAT RNAi agent can be synthesized and / or modified by methods known in the art. Modification of one nucleotide is independent of modification of the other nucleotide.

[0057] In some embodiments, nucleic acid bases (often simply called “bases”) can be modified. Commonly used natural nucleic acid bases in the art include the major purine bases adenine and guanine, and the major pyrimidine bases cytosine, thymine, and uracil. Modifications to nucleic acid bases may include, but are not limited to, universal bases, hydrophobic bases, indiscriminate bases, size-extended bases, and fluorinated bases. See, for example, Modified Nucleosides in Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Medicine, Herdewijn, P.ed. Wiley-VCH, 2008. The synthesis of such modified nucleic acid bases (e.g., phosphoramidite compounds containing modified nucleic acid bases) is known in the art.

[0058] Modified nucleic acid bases include, for example, 5-substituted pyrimidines, 6-azapyrimidines, and N-2, N-6, and O-6 substituted purines (e.g., 2-aminopropyladenine, 5-propynyluracil, or 5-propynylcytosine), 5-methylcytosine (5-me-C), 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, inosine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, 2-aminoadenine, adenine, and 6-alkyl (e.g., 6-methyl, 6-ethyl, 6-isopropyl, or 6-n-butyl) derivatives of guanine, 2-alkyl (e.g., 2-methyl, 2-ethyl, 2-isopropyl, or 2-n-butyl) and other alkyl derivatives of adenine and guanine, 2-thiouracil, and 2-thiouracil. Examples include othymine, 2-thiocytosine, 5-halouracil, cytosine, 5-propynyluracil, 5-propynylcytosine, 6-azouracil, 6-azocytosine, 6-azothimine, 5-uracil (pseudouracil), 4-thiouracil, 8-halo, 8-amino, 8-sulfhydryl, 8-thioalkyl, 8-hydroxy, and other 8-substituted adenines and guanines, 5-halo (e.g., 5-bromo), 5-trifluoromethyl, and other 5-substituted uracils and cytosines, 7-methylguanine and 7-methyladenine, 8-azaguanine and 8-azaadenine, 7-deazaguanine, 7-deazaadenine, 3-deazaguanine, and 3-deazaadenine.

[0059] In some embodiments, all or substantially all nucleotides of the AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are modified nucleotides. As used herein, an RNAi agent in which substantially all of the nucleotides present are modified nucleotides is an RNAi agent in which four or fewer (i.e., 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4) nucleotides in both the sense strand and the antisense strand are ribonucleotides (i.e., unmodified). As used herein, a sense strand in which substantially all of the nucleotides present are modified nucleotides is a sense strand in which two or fewer (i.e., 0, 1, or 2) nucleotides are ribonucleotides. As used herein, an antisense strand in which substantially all of the nucleotides present are modified nucleotides is an antisense strand in which two or fewer (i.e., 0, 1, or 2) nucleotides are ribonucleotides.

[0060] In some embodiments, one or more nucleotides of the AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are linked by non-standard bonds or skeletons (i.e., modified nucleoside bonds or modified skeletons). Modified nucleoside bonds or skeletons include, but are not limited to, phosphorothioate groups, chiral phosphorothioates, thiophosphates, phosphorodithioates, phosphotriesters, aminoalkyl phosphotriesters, alkylphosphonates (e.g., methylphosphonate or 3'-alkylenephosphonate), chiral phosphonates, phosphinates, phosphoramidates (e.g., 3'-aminophosphoramidates, aminoalkylphosphoramidates, or thionophosphoramidates), thionoalkyl phosphonates, thionoalkylphosphotriesters, morpholino bonds, boranophosphates having the usual 3'-5' bond, 2'-5' linked analogs of boranophosphates, or boranophosphates having inverted polarity where adjacent pairs of nucleoside units are linked from 3'-5' to 5'-3' or 2'-5' to 5'-2'. In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside bonds or skeletons lack a phosphorus atom. Modified nucleoside intersequences lacking a phosphorus atom include, but are not limited to, short-chain alkyl or cycloalkyl intersequences, mixed heteroatom and alkyl or cycloalkyl intersequences, or one or more short-chain heteroatom or heterocyclic intersequences. In some embodiments, the modified nucleoside skeleton includes, but is not limited to, a siloxane skeleton, a sulfide skeleton, a sulfoxide skeleton, a sulfone skeleton, a formacetyl and thioformacetyl skeleton, a methyleneformacetyl and thioformacetyl skeleton, an alkene-containing skeleton, a sulfamate skeleton, a methyleneimino and methylenehydrazino skeleton, a sulfonate and sulfonamide skeleton, an amide skeleton, and other skeletons having a mixture of N, O, S and CH2 components.

[0061] In some embodiments, the sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, may contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 phosphorothioate bonds, or the antisense strand of an AAT RNAi agent may contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 phosphorothioate bonds, or both the sense strand and the antisense strand may independently contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 phosphorothioate bonds.

[0062] In some embodiments, the sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, includes at least two phosphorothioate nucleoside links. In some embodiments, the at least two phosphorothioate nucleoside links are located between nucleotides at positions 1–3 from the 3' end of the sense strand. In some embodiments, the at least two phosphorothioate nucleoside links are located between nucleotides at positions 1–3, 2–4, 3–5, 4–6, 4–5, or 6–8 from the 5' end of the sense strand. In some embodiments, the phosphorothioate nucleoside links are used to ligate the terminal nucleotide of the sense strand to a capping residue present at the 5' end, 3' end, or both the 5' and 3' ends of the nucleotide sequence. In some embodiments, the phosphorothioate nucleoside links are used to ligate a target-directing group to the sense strand.

[0063] In some embodiments, the antisense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof, comprises three or four phosphorothioate nucleoside links. In some embodiments, the antisense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof, comprises three phosphorothioate nucleoside links. In some embodiments, the three phosphorothioate nucleoside links are located between nucleotides at positions 1-3 from the 5' end of the antisense strand, and between nucleotides at positions 19-21, 20-22, 21-23, 22-24, 23-25, or 24-26 from the 5' end. In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, include at least two phosphorothioate nucleoside links in the sense strand and three or four phosphorothioate nucleoside links in the antisense strand.

[0064] In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, comprise one or more modified nucleotides and one or more modified nucleoside interbonds. In some embodiments, a 2'-modified nucleoside is combined with a modified nucleoside interbond.

[0065] Capping residue or portion In some embodiments, the sense strand may include one or more capping residues or portions, which may also be referred to in the art as “caps,” “terminal caps,” or “capping residues.” As used herein, “capping residues” are non-nucleotide compounds or other portions that can be incorporated into one or more ends of the nucleotide sequence of an RNAi agent disclosed herein. Capping residues may, in some cases, provide the RNAi agent with certain beneficial properties, such as protection from exonuclease degradation. In some embodiments, inverted abasic residues (invAb) (also referred to in the art as “inverted abasic sites”) are added as capping residues (see Table A). (See, for example, F. Czauderna, Nucleic Acids Res., 2003, 31(11), 2705-16). Examples of capping residues include inverted abasic residues and terminal C3H7 (propyl), C6H 13 (Hexyl), or C 12 H 25 Examples include carbon chains such as (dodecyl) groups. In some embodiments, the capping residues are located at the 5' end, 3' end, or both the 5' and 3' ends of the sense strand of the AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, the 5' and / or 3' ends of the sense strand of the AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof may contain multiple inverted debasic deoxyribose moieties as capping residues.

[0066] In some embodiments, one or more inverted abasic residues (invAbs) are added to the 3' end of the sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, one or more inverted abasic residues (invAbs) are added to the 5' end of the sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, one or more inverted abasic residues or sites are inserted between the target-directed ligand and the nucleotide sequence of the sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, including one or more inverted abasic residues or sites near the end(s) of the sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof, can improve the activity of the RNAi agent or enhance other desired properties.

[0067] In some embodiments, one or more inverted debasic residues (invAb) are added to the 5' end of the sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, one or more inverted debasic residues may be inserted between the target-directed ligand and the nucleotide sequence of the sense strand of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, the inverted debasic residue may be bound via a phosphate, a phosphorothioate (e.g., indicated herein as (invAb)s) or other nucleoside linkage. The chemical structures of the inverted debasic deoxyribose residues are shown in Table A below, and in the chemical structures shown in Figures 1A-1E and 2A-2E.

[0068] [Table 1]

[0069] Targeting moieties and targeting groups The AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, may include an oligonucleotide sequence conjugated to one or more non-nucleotide groups, including but not limited to a target-directing moiety or target-directing group, for example, the sense sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4. The target-directing moiety or target-directing group can enhance the targeting or delivery of the RNAi agent. In some embodiments, the target-directing moiety or target-directing group includes, for example, a liver-targeting moiety. In some embodiments, the liver-targeting moiety can specifically bind to an asialocrypoprotein receptor. In some embodiments, the asialocrypoprotein receptor-binding moiety includes N-acetylgalactosamine (NAG or GalNAc). In some embodiments, the NAG is NAG37. Specific examples of target-directing (NAG37)s groups used in the AAT RNAi APIs listed in Table 2 herein, which include three target-directing N-acetyl-galactosamine moieties disclosed herein, are shown in Table B. The target-directing moiety or target-directing group can be covalently bonded to the 3' and / or 5' ends of either the sense strand (e.g., the sense strand of the AAT RNAi agent of SEQ ID NO: 4) and / or the antisense strand (e.g., the antisense strand of the AAT RNAi agent of SEQ ID NO: 2). In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi agent includes a target-directing group ligated to the 3' and / or 5' ends of the sense strand (e.g., the sense strand of the AAT RNAi agent of SEQ ID NO: 4). In some embodiments, the target-directing group is ligated to the 5' end of the sense strand of the AAT RNAi agent (e.g., the sense strand of the AAT RNAi agent of SEQ ID NO: 4). In some embodiments, the target-directing group includes, is essentially derived from, or consists of the structure (NAG37)s and is ligated to the 5' end of the sense strand of the AAT RNAi agent (e.g., the sense strand of the AAT RNAi agent of SEQ ID NO: 4). The target-directing group can be ligated to the RNAi agent directly or indirectly via a linker / binding group. In some embodiments, the target-directing group is linked to the RNAi agent via an unstable, cleavable, or reversible bond or linker. In some embodiments, the target-directing group is linked to an inverted debase residue at the 5' end of the sense strand.

[0070] Target-directing groups or moieties can enhance the pharmacokinetic or biodistribution characteristics of the conjugate or RNAi agent to which they are bound, thereby improving the cell-specific distribution and cell-specific uptake of the conjugate or RNAi agent. In some embodiments, target-directing groups enhance the endocytosis of the RNAi agent. Target-directing groups may be monovalent, divalent, trivalent, tetravalent, or have a higher valency with respect to the target to which they are directed. Typical target-directing groups include, but are not limited to, compounds with affinity for cell surface molecules, cell receptor ligands, haptens, antibodies, monoclonal antibodies, antibody fragments, and antibody mimics with affinity for cell surface molecules.

[0071] In some embodiments, the target-directing group comprises an asialoclycoprotein receptor ligand. In some embodiments, the asialoclycoprotein receptor ligand comprises or consists of one or more galactose derivatives. As used herein, the term galactose derivative includes both galactose and galactose derivatives having an affinity for the asialoclycoprotein receptor equal to or higher than that of galactose. Examples of galactose derivatives include, but are not limited to, galactose, galactosamine, N-formylgalactosamine, N-acetylgalactosamine, N-propionylgalactosamine, Nn-butanoylgalactosamine, and N-isobutanoylgalactosamine (see, for example, STIobst and K. Drickamer, JBC, 1996, 271, 6686). Galactose derivatives and clusters of galactose derivatives that are useful for targeting oligonucleotides and other molecules to the liver in vivo are known in the art (see, for example, Baenziger and Fiete, 1980, Cell, 22, 611-620; Connolly et al., 1982, J. Biol. Chem., 257, 939-945).

[0072] Galactose derivatives have been used to target hepatocytes in vivo via binding of molecules to asialoglycoprotein receptors expressed on the surface of hepatocytes. Binding of an asialoglycoprotein receptor ligand to one or more asialoglycoprotein receptors facilitates cell-specific targeting of hepatocytes and endocytosis of the molecule to hepatocytes. The asialoglycoprotein receptor ligand may be monomeric (e.g., having a single galactose derivative) or polymeric (e.g., having multiple galactose derivatives). The galactose derivative or "cluster" of galactose derivatives may be conjugated to the 3' or 5' end of the sense or antisense strand of an RNAi agent disclosed herein using methods known in the art.

[0073] In some embodiments, the target-directing group comprises a cluster of galactose derivatives. As used herein, a cluster of galactose derivatives comprises a molecule having 2 to 4 terminal galactose derivatives. The terminal galactose derivatives are attached to the molecule via their C-1 carbon. In some embodiments, the cluster of galactose derivatives is a trimer of galactose derivatives (also called a tribranched galactose derivative or trivalent galactose derivative). In some embodiments, the cluster of galactose derivatives comprises N-acetyl-galactosamine. In some embodiments, the cluster of galactose derivatives comprises 3 N-acetyl-galactosamines. In some embodiments, the cluster of galactose derivatives is a tetramer of galactose derivatives (also called a tetrabranched galactose derivative or tetravalent galactose derivative). In some embodiments, the cluster of galactose derivatives comprises 4 N-acetyl-galactosamines.

[0074] As used herein, a trimer of galactose derivatives comprises three galactose derivatives, each linked to a central branch point. As used herein, a tetramer of galactose derivatives comprises four galactose derivatives, each linked to a central branch point. The galactose derivatives may be linked to the central branch point via the C-1 carbon of the sugar. In some embodiments, the galactose derivatives are linked to the branch point via a linker or spacer. In some embodiments, the linker or spacer is a flexible hydrophilic spacer, such as a PEG group (see, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 5,885,968, Biessen et al. J. Med. Chem. 1995 Vol. 39 pp. 1538-1546). The branch point can be any small molecule that allows the linkage of the three galactose derivatives and further allows the linkage of the branch point to the RNAi agent. Examples of branch point groups are dyridine or diglutamic acid. The branching point can be bound to the RNAi agent via a linker or spacer. In some embodiments, the linker or spacer includes a flexible hydrophilic spacer, for example, a PEG spacer, but is not limited. In some embodiments, the linker is a rigid linker, for example, comprising a cyclic group. In some embodiments, the galactose derivative includes or comprises N-acetyl-galactosamine. In some embodiments, the cluster of the galactose derivative consists of a tetramer of the galactose derivative, which may be, for example, an N-acetyl-galactosamine tetramer.

[0075] Preparations of galactose derivative clusters containing target-directed groups, such as N-acetyl-galactosamine, are described, for example, in International Patent Application Publication WO2018 / 044350 (Patent Application PCT / US2017 / 021147) and International Patent Application Publication WO2017 / 156012 (Patent Application PCT / US2017 / 021175). The contents of both publications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0076] For example, the AAT RNAi agents described in Tables 1.1 and 1.2, namely, target-directed ligands conjugated to dsRNAs containing (i) an antisense strand comprising, or essentially comprising, (i) SEQ ID NO: 2, and (ii) a sense strand comprising, or essentially comprising, SEQ ID NO: 4, have the chemical structure (NAG37)s as shown in Table B below.

[0077] [Table 2]

[0078] AAT RNAi agents and AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi agent used in the methods disclosed herein has the nucleotide sequence of the AAT RNAi API (ADS-001) or a salt thereof shown in Table 2. The nucleotide sequence of the AAT RNAi agent found in the AAT RNAi API includes the nucleotide sequence of the antisense strand shown in SEQ ID NO: 2 shown in Table 1.1 below, and the nucleotide sequence of the sense strand shown in SEQ ID NO: 4 shown in Table 1.2 below.

[0079] [Table 3]

[0080] [Table 4]

[0081] In this specification, the following notation used in Tables 1.1, 1.2, and 2 is used to indicate modified nucleotides, target-directing groups, and linking groups: A, G, C, and U represent adenosine, cytidine, guanosine, and uridine, respectively; a, c, g, and u represent 2'-O-methyladenosine, 2'-O-methylcytidine, 2'-O-methylguanosine, and 2'-O-methyluridine, respectively; Af, Cf, Gf, and Uf represent 2'-fluoroadenosine, 2'-fluorocytidine, 2'-fluoroguanosine, and 2'-fluorouridine, respectively; s represents a phosphorothioate bond; (invAb) represents an inverted debasal deoxyribose residue (see Table A); and (NAG37)s represents the structure shown in Table B above.

[0082] As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, unless otherwise indicated by the sequence (e.g., by a phosphorothioate bond "s"), the nucleotide monomers, when present in a sense or antisense strand, are linked to each other by a 5'-3' phosphodiester bond. As will be clearly apparent to those skilled in the art, the phosphodiester bond normally present in oligonucleotides is replaced by the inclusion of the phosphorothioate bond shown in the modified nucleotide sequences disclosed herein. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the terminal nucleotide at the 3' end of a given oligonucleotide sequence, ex vivo, typically has a hydroxyl (-OH) group at the 3' position of each given monomer, instead of a phosphate group. Furthermore, in the embodiments disclosed herein, when each chain is viewed from 5' to 3', the inverted debasic residue is inserted such that the 3' position of deoxyribose is linked at the 3' end of the preceding monomer of each chain. Furthermore, as will be readily understood and recognized by those skilled in the art, the chemical structures of phosphorothioates shown herein typically exhibit an anion on their sulfur atom; however, the present invention disclosed herein encompasses all phosphorothioate tautomers (for example, those in which the sulfur atom has a double bond and the anion is on the oxygen atom). Unless otherwise explicitly indicated herein, such understanding by those skilled in the art is used when describing the AAT RNAi agents and compositions comprising AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein.

[0083] Each sense strand and / or antisense strand may have any of the above-mentioned target-directing groups or linking groups, and other target-directing groups or linking groups, conjugated to the 5' and / or 3' ends of the oligonucleotide sequence of the sense strand and / or antisense strand.

[0084] The antisense strand sequences of the AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, for example, the antisense strand of SEQ ID NO: 2, are designed to target AAT mRNA transcripts derived from both normal and mutant AAT genes, thereby silencing the translation of mutant Z-AAT protein using the human-targeted RNA interference mechanism of AATD.

[0085] In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein use the AAT RNAi APIs listed in Table 2 below. Therefore, in some embodiments, the AAT RNAi API comprises a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) including the sense strand of SEQ ID NO: 6. In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi API comprises a dsRNA including the antisense strand of SEQ ID NO: 2. In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi API comprises a dsRNA including the sense strand of SEQ ID NO: 6 and the antisense strand of SEQ ID NO: 2. Therefore, in some embodiments, the AAT RNAi API comprises a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) including the sense strand of SEQ ID NO: 6. In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi API comprises a dsRNA including the antisense strand of SEQ ID NO: 2. In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi API comprises a dsRNA including the sense strand of SEQ ID NO: 6 and the antisense strand of SEQ ID NO: 2.

[0086] [Table 5]

[0087] [Table 6]

[0088] A schematic diagram of the AAT RNAi drug substance (ADS-001) is shown in Figure 3, and the complete chemical structure is shown in Figures 1A-1E (sodium salt form) and 2A-2E (free acid form). In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi drug substance (e.g., ADS-001) is prepared or provided as a salt, a mixed salt, or a free acid. In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi drug substance (e.g., ADS-001) is prepared or provided as a sodium salt.

[0089] Pharmaceutical compositions and preparations AAT RNAi agents suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, can be prepared as pharmaceutical compositions or formulations for administration to human subjects. These pharmaceutical compositions may be used to treat subjects with diseases or disorders in which inhibition of AAT mRNA expression or reduction of AAT protein levels would be effective, such as human subjects with AATD. In some embodiments, the methods involve administering to a subject in need of treatment an AAT RNAi agent linked to a target-directing group or target-directing ligand described herein, such as a liver-targeted NAG moiety. In some embodiments, one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients (such as a medium, carrier, diluent, and / or delivery polymer) are added to a pharmaceutical composition comprising an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, thereby forming a pharmaceutical formulation suitable for in vivo delivery to human subjects.

[0090] AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, for example, pharmaceutical compositions comprising ADS-001 or a salt thereof, reduce the level of AAT mRNA in human subjects when administered using the methods disclosed herein.

[0091] In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions described herein, comprising an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are used to treat or manage clinical symptoms in subjects with AATD, e.g., chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, hypertransaminasemia, cholestasis, fibrosis, and even fulminant hepatic failure. In some embodiments, one or more pharmaceutical compositions comprising an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof, in a therapeutic or prophylactic dose, are administered to a subject requiring such treatment. In some embodiments, administration of an AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof, may be used to reduce the number, severity, and / or frequency of disease symptoms in a subject.

[0092] As used herein, “effective dose” means an amount of a drug or composition sufficient to treat a subject with AATD when administered to a patient (e.g., by reducing, improving, or maintaining the symptoms of one or more of the pre-existing disease or its associated comorbidities). The “effective dose” may vary depending on the drug or composition, the method of administration, the disease and its severity, as well as the patient’s medical history, age, weight, family history, genetic makeup, stage of the pathological process mediated by AATD, the type of prior or combination therapy, if any, and other individual characteristics.

[0093] The pharmaceutical compositions disclosed herein, comprising AAT RNAi agents, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, may be used to treat at least one symptom in a subject having a disease or disorder in which reduction or inhibition of AAT mRNA expression would be effective. In some embodiments, the subject receives a therapeutically effective dose of one or more pharmaceutical compositions comprising the AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, for treating the symptom. In other embodiments, the subject receives a prophylactically effective dose of one or more AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, for preventing the at least one symptom.

[0094] The AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or its salts, are preparations appropriately tailored for specific routes and can be administered via any suitable route. Therefore, the pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be administered by injection, for example, intravenously or subcutaneously. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositions described herein are administered by subcutaneous injection.

[0095] The pharmaceutical compositions or agents used herein comprise a pharmacologically effective amount of at least one AAT RNAi agent disclosed herein, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof, and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. A pharmaceutically acceptable excipient (excipient) is a substance other than the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API, therapeutic agent, e.g., AAT RNAi agent) that is intentionally included in a drug delivery system. Excipients do not, and are not intended to, exert a therapeutic effect at the intended dose. Excipients may act to a) assist in the processing of the drug delivery system during manufacturing, b) protect, support, or enhance the stability, bioavailability, or patient acceptability of the API, c) assist in the identification of the formulation, and / or d) enhance the overall safety, efficacy, or any other attribute of delivery of the API during storage or use. A pharmaceutically acceptable excipient may be an inert substance or not.

[0096] Excipients may include, but are not limited to, absorption enhancers, anti-adhesion agents, defoamers, antioxidants, binders, buffers, carriers, coatings, colorants, delivery enhancers, delivery polymers, dextran, dextrose, diluents, disintegrants, emulsifiers, bulking agents, fillers, fragrances, flow enhancers, hygroscopic agents, lubricants, oils, polymers, preservatives, physiological saline, salts, solvents, sugars, suspending agents, sustained-release matrices, sweeteners, thickeners, isotonic agents, media, water repellents, and wetting agents.

[0097] Suitable pharmaceutical compositions for injection include sterile aqueous solutions (if water-soluble). For subcutaneous or intravenous administration, suitable carriers may include physiological saline, bacteriostatic water, CREMOPHOR® EL™ (BASF, Parsippany, NJ), or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). These should be stable under manufacturing and storage conditions and protected from microbial contamination, such as bacteria and fungi. The carrier may be, for example, a solvent or dispersion medium containing water, ethanol, polyols (e.g., glycerol, propylene glycol, and liquid polyethylene glycol), or a suitable mixture thereof.

[0098] Sterile injectable preparations can be prepared by placing the required amount of the active compound in a suitable solvent, along with one or a combination of the components listed above as needed, and then sterilizing by filtration. Generally, dispersions are prepared by placing the active compound in a sterile medium containing a basic dispersion medium and other components from those listed above as needed.

[0099] In some embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein include components identified in the formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients shown in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2 below.

[0100] For ease of administration and dose uniformity, the AAT RNAi agents disclosed herein, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, may be formulated in dosing unit form in a composition. Dosing unit form refers to physically separate units suitable as a single dose for the target of treatment, each unit containing a predetermined amount of the active compound calculated to produce the desired therapeutic effect in conjunction with the necessary pharmaceutical carrier.

[0101] In some embodiments, the dosage unit is approximately 5 mg to 300 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient, for example, the formulated AAT RNAi active ingredient shown in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2. In some embodiments, the dosage unit is approximately 25 mg to 200 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient, for example, the formulated AAT RNAi active ingredient shown in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2. In some embodiments, the dosage unit is approximately 100 mg to 200 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient, for example, the formulated AAT RNAi active ingredient shown in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2. In some embodiments, the dosage unit is approximately 100 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient, for example, the formulated AAT RNAi active ingredient shown in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2. In some embodiments, the dosage unit is approximately 200 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient, for example, the formulated AAT RNAi active ingredient shown in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2. In some embodiments, the dosage unit is at least about 5 mg, at least about 10 mg, at least about 15 mg, at least about 20 mg, at least about 25 mg, at least about 30 mg, at least about 35 mg, at least about 40 mg, at least about 45 mg, at least about 50 mg, at least about 55 mg, at least about 60 mg, at least about 65 mg, at least about 70 mg, at least about 75 mg, at least about 80 mg, at least about 85 mg, at least about 90 mg, at least about 95 mg, at least about 100 mg, at least about 110 mg, at least about 120 mg, at least about 130 mg, at least about 140 mg, at least about 150 mg, at least about 160 mg, at least about 170 mg, at least about 180 mg, at least about 190 mg, or at least about 200 mg of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient, for example, the formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient shown in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2.In some embodiments, the dosage unit is approximately 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg, 35 mg, 40 mg, 45 mg, 50 mg, 55 mg, 60 mg, 65 mg, 70 mg, 75 mg, 80 mg, 85 mg, 90 mg, 95 mg, 100 mg, 110 mg, 120 mg, 130 mg, 140 mg, 150 mg, 160 mg, 170 mg, 180 mg, 190 mg, or 200 mg of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient, for example, the formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient shown in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2. RNAi drug substance about 5 to about 10 mg, about 10 to about 15 mg, about 15 to about 20 mg, about 20 to about 25 mg, about 25 to about 30 mg, about 30 to about 35 mg, about 35 to about 40 mg, about 40 to about 45 mg, about 45 to about 50 mg, about 50 to about 55 mg, about 55 to about 60 mg, about 60 to about 65 mg, about 65 to about 70 mg, about 70 to about 75 mg, about 75 to about 80 mg, about 80 to about The dosages are approximately 85 mg, 85-90 mg, 90-95 mg, 95-100 mg, 100-110 mg, 110-120 mg, 120-130 mg, 130-140 mg, 140-150 mg, 150-160 mg, 160-170 mg, 170-180 mg, 180-190 mg, or 190-200 mg.

[0102] The pharmaceutical composition may contain other further components commonly found in pharmaceutical compositions. Such further components may include, but are not limited to, antipruritic agents, astringents, topical anesthetics, or anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., antihistamines, diphenhydramine, etc.).

[0103] As used herein, “pharmacologically effective dose,” “therapeutic effective dose,” or simply “effective dose” refers to the amount of RNAi agent that produces a pharmacological, therapeutic, or prophylactic effect.

[0104] The pharmaceutically acceptable formulations described herein may be packaged in kits, containers, packs, or dispensers. The pharmaceutical compositions described herein may be packaged in pre-filled syringes or vials.

[0105] Formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients shown in Table 2 (e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof) are formulated with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients to form a pharmaceutical composition suitable for administration to human subjects.

[0106] In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi drug substance listed in Table 2 is formulated at 230 mg / mL in aqueous sodium phosphate buffer (0.5 mM sodium dihydrogen phosphate, 0.5 mM disodium hydrogen phosphate) to form the formulated AAT RNAi drug substance (ADS-001-1) shown in Table 3.1.

[0107] [Table 7]

[0108] In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi drug substance listed in Table 2 is formulated at 200 mg / mL in aqueous sodium phosphate buffer (0.5 mM sodium dihydrogen phosphate, 0.5 mM disodium hydrogen phosphate) to form the formulated AAT RNAi drug substance (ADS-001-2) shown in Table 3.2.

[0109] [Table 8]

[0110] In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi API of the Disclosure comprises 150 mg to 250 mg per mL of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi API of the Disclosure comprises at least about 150 mg, at least about 160 mg, at least about 170 mg, at least about 180 mg, at least about 190 mg, at least about 200 mg, at least about 210 mg, at least about 220 mg, at least about 230 mg, at least about 240 mg, or at least about 250 mg per mL of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi drug substance of this disclosure comprises approximately 150 mg, approximately 160 mg, approximately 170 mg, approximately 180 mg, approximately 190 mg, approximately 200 mg, approximately 210 mg, approximately 220 mg, approximately 230 mg, approximately 240 mg, or approximately 250 mg per mL of the AAT RNAi drug substance disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi APIs of this disclosure contain, per 1 mL, about 150 mg to about 160 mg, about 160 mg to about 170 mg, about 170 mg to about 180 mg, about 180 mg to about 190 mg, about 190 mg to about 200 mg, about 200 mg to about 210 mg, about 210 mg to about 220 mg, about 220 mg to about 230 mg, about 230 mg to about 240 mg, or about 240 mg to about 250 mg of the AAT RNAi APIs disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof.

[0111] In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi API of this disclosure contains about 0.120 mg of suspension per mL. In some embodiments, the suspension contains a phosphate or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the suspension contains a sodium phosphate salt or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the suspension contains sodium dihydrogen phosphate. In some embodiments, the suspension contains disodium hydrogen phosphate. In some embodiments, the suspension contains sodium dihydrogen phosphate and disodium hydrogen phosphate. In some embodiments, the sodium dihydrogen phosphate is monohydrated sodium dihydrogen phosphate. In some embodiments, the disodium hydrogen phosphate is anhydrous disodium hydrogen phosphate. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi API of this disclosure contains approximately equal amounts of monohydrated sodium dihydrogen phosphate and anhydrous disodium hydrogen phosphate. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi API of this disclosure contains about 0.061 mg of monohydrated sodium dihydrogen phosphate per mL. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi API of this disclosure contains about 0.062 mg of anhydrous disodium hydrogen phosphate per mL. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient of this disclosure contains approximately 0.061 mg of monohydrated sodium dihydrogen phosphate and approximately 0.062 mg of anhydrous disodium hydrogen phosphate per 1 mL.

[0112] The formulated AAT RNAi drug substances according to Tables 3.1 and 3.2 are prepared as sterile formulations. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi drug substance is packaged in a container, such as a glass vial. In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi drug substance is packaged in a glass vial with a volume of approximately 1.1 mL, and the volume desirable for administration can be calculated based on the desired dose level for administration.

[0113] In some embodiments, the formulated AAT RNAi drug substances described in Tables 3.1 and 3.2 are administered to human subjects using the methods disclosed herein.

[0114] kit Any of the compositions described herein, for example, an AAT RNAi agent, an AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001), or a salt thereof, a pharmaceutical composition and preparation of an AAT RNAi agent or an AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) or a salt thereof, or a formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) may be included in the kit. In non-limiting examples, the kit includes an AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001), or a salt thereof.

[0115] The kit may further include reagents or instructions for use with the compositions described herein. It may also include one or more buffers.

[0116] In some embodiments, the kit may further include an effective amount of additional therapeutic agents for the treatment of AATD.

[0117] The components of the kit may be packaged in either an aqueous medium or a lyophilized form. The kit's container means generally include at least one vial, test tube, flask, bottle, syringe, or other container means in which the components may be preferably aliquoted. If the kit contains multiple components (labeled reagents and labels may be packaged together), the kit also generally includes a second, third, or further container in which the further components may be separately disposed. The kit may also include a second container means for containing sterile, pharmaceutically acceptable buffers and / or other diluents. However, various combinations of components may be contained in vials. The kit of the present invention also typically includes means for containing the composition of the present invention, e.g., AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001), or a salt thereof, and any other reagent containers, sealed for commercial sale.

[0118] If the components of the kit are provided in one and / or more solutions, the solutions are aqueous solutions, and particularly preferably sterile aqueous solutions. However, the components of the kit may be provided as dry powder(s). If the reagents and / or components are provided as dry powder, the powder can be reconstituted by the addition of a suitable solvent. It is also assumed that the solvent may be provided in a separate container.

[0119] Pre-filled syringe Any of the compositions described herein, for example, an AAT RNAi agent, an AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001), or a salt thereof, a pharmaceutical composition and formulation of an AAT RNAi agent or an AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) or a salt thereof, or a formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) may be packaged in a syringe. In non-limiting examples, the pre-filled syringe contains an AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001), or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, the pre-filled syringe contains, for example, about 100 mg or about 200 mg of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) in a dosing unit.

[0120] Human subjects of AATD and diagnosis of AATD The methods disclosed herein include the treatment of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) in human subjects requiring treatment, and include the treatment of symptoms and diseases caused by AATD in said human subjects using a pharmaceutical composition comprising an AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, for example, an AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient listed in Table 2. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises a formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient listed in Table 3.1 or Table 3.2.

[0121] In some embodiments, the human subject receives the drug after being diagnosed with AATD. As described herein, AATD is a hereditary disorder caused by mutations in the gene transcript resulting in the translation of a variant of the AAT protein, which is prone to misfolding, leading to intracellular retention of the AAT protein in hepatocytes. While various mutations in the SERPINA1 gene have been identified, the PiZZ genotype, the most common and severe form of AATD, is caused by a single base pair substitution. In subjects with the PiZZ genotype, serum AAT levels are often reported to be less than 15% of those in healthy individuals. Often, subjects are initially diagnosed with COPD, asthma, or other lung diseases without identifying the underlying cause. Over time, liver diseases, such as fibrosis and cirrhosis, may develop due to the intercellular retention of the misfolded ("Z-AAT") protein and the inability of liver cells to properly secrete the protein. Pediatric subjects typically present with clinical manifestations of liver disease, which may include asymptomatic chronic hepatitis, growth retardation, anorexia, or hepatomegaly and splenomegaly. AATD can be diagnosed and confirmed by standard genotyping of the blood sample in question.

[0122] Administration and inhibition of AAT gene expression Generally, the effective dose administered to subjects requiring the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is in the range of about 0.1 mg / kg to about 10 mg / kg body weight / administered dose, for example, in the range of about 0.25 mg / kg to about 5 mg / kg body weight / administered dose.

[0123] In some embodiments, the effective dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is in the range of about 0.5 mg / kg to about 4 mg / kg body weight per administration.

[0124] In some embodiments, an effective dose of the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, per administration is at least about 0.2 mg / kg of body weight, at least about 0.4 mg / kg, at least about 0.6 mg / kg, at least about 0.8 mg / kg, at least about 1 mg / kg, at least about 1.2 mg / kg, at least about 1.4 mg / kg, at least about 1.6 mg / kg, at least about 1.8 mg / kg, at least about 2 mg / kg, at least about 2.2 mg / kg, at least about 2.4 mg / kg, at least about 2.6 mg / kg, at least about 2.8 mg / kg, at least about 3 mg / kg, at least about 3.2 mg / kg, at least about 3.4 mg / kg, at least about 3.6 mg / kg, at least about 3.8 mg / kg, at least about 4 mg / kg, at least about 4.2 mg / kg, at least about 4.4 mg / kg, and less Each is approximately 4.6 mg / kg, at least approximately 4.8 mg / kg, at least approximately 5 mg / kg, at least approximately 5.2 mg / kg, at least approximately 5.4 mg / kg, at least approximately 5.6 mg / kg, at least approximately 5.8 mg / kg, at least approximately 6 mg / kg, at least approximately 6.2 mg / kg, at least approximately 6.4 mg / kg, at least approximately 6.6 mg / kg, at least approximately 6.8 mg / kg, at least approximately 7 mg / kg, at least approximately 7.2 mg / kg, at least approximately 7.4 mg / kg, at least approximately 7.6 mg / kg, at least approximately 7.8 mg / kg, at least approximately 8 mg / kg, at least approximately 8.2 mg / kg, at least approximately 8.4 mg / kg, at least approximately 8.6 mg / kg, at least approximately 8.8 mg / kg, at least approximately 9 mg / kg, at least approximately 9.2 mg / kg, at least approximately 9.4 mg / kg, at least approximately 9.6 mg / kg, at least approximately 9.8 mg / kg, and at least approximately 10 mg / kg.

[0125] In some embodiments, the effective dose of the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, per administration is approximately 0.2 mg / kg, 0.4 mg / kg, 0.6 mg / kg, 0.8 mg / kg, 1 mg / kg, 1.2 mg / kg, 1.4 mg / kg, 1.6 mg / kg, 1.8 mg / kg, 2 mg / kg, 2.2 mg / kg, 2.4 mg / kg, 2.6 mg / kg, 2.8 mg / kg, 3 mg / kg, 3.2 mg / kg, 3.4 mg / kg, 3.6 mg / kg, 3.8 mg / kg, 4 mg / kg, and 4.2 mg / kg of body weight. The amounts are approximately 4.4 mg / kg, 4.6 mg / kg, 4.8 mg / kg, 5 mg / kg, 5.2 mg / kg, 5.4 mg / kg, 5.6 mg / kg, 5.8 mg / kg, 6 mg / kg, 6.2 mg / kg, 6.4 mg / kg, 6.6 mg / kg, 6.8 mg / kg, 7 mg / kg, 7.2 mg / kg, 7.4 mg / kg, 7.6 mg / kg, 7.8 mg / kg, 8 mg / kg, 8.2 mg / kg, 8.4 mg / kg, 8.6 mg / kg, 8.8 mg / kg, 9 mg / kg, 9.2 mg / kg, 9.4 mg / kg, 9.6 mg / kg, 9.8 mg / kg, and 10 mg / kg.

[0126] In some embodiments, the effective dose of the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is approximately 1 mg / kg to 2 mg / kg, 2 mg / kg to 3 mg / kg, 3 mg / kg to 4 mg / kg, 4 mg / kg to 5 mg / kg, 5 mg / kg to 6 mg / kg, 6 mg / kg to 7 mg / kg, 7 mg / kg to 8 mg / kg, 8 mg / kg to 9 mg / kg, and 9 mg / kg to 10 mg / kg per dose.

[0127] In some embodiments, the effective dose is a fixed dose. In some embodiments, the effective dose is a fixed dose of 5 mg to 300 mg of the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof. In some embodiments, the effective dose is a fixed dose of 25 mg to 200 mg of the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof. The dosage may depend on variable factors such as the overall age and health status of the subject, the relative biological efficiency of the compound being delivered, the formulation of the drug, the presence and type of excipients in the formulation, and the route of administration. In some embodiments, the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient, for example, dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, in doses of approximately 10 mg, approximately 15 mg, approximately 20 mg, approximately 25 mg, approximately 30 mg, approximately 35 mg, approximately 40 mg, approximately 45 mg, approximately 50 mg, approximately 55 mg, approximately 60 mg, approximately 65 mg, approximately 70 mg, approximately 75 mg, approximately 80 mg, approximately 85 mg, approximately 90 mg, approximately 95 mg, approximately 100 mg, approximately 120 mg, approximately 140 mg, approximately 160 mg, approximately 180 mg, approximately 200 mg, approximately 2 The effective dose is a fixed dose of 20 mg, approximately 240 mg, approximately 260 mg or approximately 280 mg to approximately 15 mg, approximately 20 mg, approximately 25 mg, approximately 30 mg, approximately 35 mg, approximately 40 mg, approximately 45 mg, approximately 50 mg, approximately 55 mg, approximately 60 mg, approximately 65 mg, approximately 70 mg, approximately 75 mg, approximately 80 mg, approximately 85 mg, approximately 90 mg, approximately 95 mg, approximately 100 mg, approximately 120 mg, approximately 140 mg, approximately 160 mg, approximately 180 mg, approximately 200 mg, approximately 220 mg, approximately 240 mg, approximately 260 mg, approximately 280 mg or approximately 300 mg. In some embodiments, the effective dose is a fixed dose of approximately 25 mg of the AAT RNAi drug substance disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof.In some embodiments, a fixed dose of approximately 50 mg of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is an effective dose. In some embodiments, a fixed dose of approximately 75 mg of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is an effective dose. In some embodiments, a fixed dose of approximately 100 mg of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is an effective dose. In some embodiments, a fixed dose of approximately 125 mg of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is an effective dose. In some embodiments, a fixed dose of approximately 150 mg of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is an effective dose. In some embodiments, a fixed dose of approximately 175 mg of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is an effective dose. In some embodiments, a fixed dose of approximately 200 mg of the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA containing a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is an effective dose.

[0128] Furthermore, it is understood that the initial dose may, in some cases, be increased beyond the upper limit levels mentioned above to rapidly achieve the desired blood or tissue levels, or the initial dose may, in some cases, be less than the optimal dose. For example, in some embodiments, an initial dose of about 25 mg to about 200 mg, e.g., about 25 mg, about 50 mg, about 75 mg, about 100 mg, about 125 mg, about 150 mg, about 175 mg, or about 200 mg of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient disclosed herein, e.g., dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, e.g., ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is administered, followed by a second dose of about 25 to 200 mg about 4 weeks or 1 month later, and thereafter further doses (similar to the concept of "maintenance dose") are administered once every 12 weeks or about 3 months (i.e., once every 3 months).

[0129] With regard to the treatment of a disease or the production of a drug or composition for the treatment of a disease, the AAT RNAi drug substance disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, as described herein, can be combined with excipients or a second or other RNAi agent, a second drug or treatment, including but not limited to antibodies, antibody fragments, peptides and / or aptamers.

[0130] In some aspects of the methods disclosed herein, administration of a pharmaceutical composition comprising the AAT RNAi drug substance disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, to a human subject requiring such a drug may result in (i) a reduction in fibrosis, (ii) a reduction in periportal hepatocyte levels, (iii) a reduction in serum Z-AAT, (iv) a reduction in total liver Z-AAT, (v) a reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT, (vi) a reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT, (vii) a reduction in ALT, (viii) a reduction in GGT, (ix) a reduction in Pro-C3, or (x) a combination thereof.

[0131] In some embodiments, administration of a pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, to a human subject requiring such treatment may result in improvement of fibrosis, portal venitis, interface hepatitis, pan-portal lesions, PAS+D zone location, zone 1 "microglobule" periportal lesions, or any combination thereof.

[0132] In some embodiments, the gene expression level and / or mRNA level of the AAT gene in a subject administered with an AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is reduced by at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or more than 99% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi drug or to a subject not receiving the AAT RNAi drug. The gene expression level and / or mRNA level in the subject is reduced in the cells, cell populations, and / or tissues of the subject. In some embodiments, the gene expression level and / or mRNA level in the subject is reduced in the liver cells of the subject, e.g., hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, liver cell populations, and / or the liver.

[0133] In some embodiments, the gene expression level and / or mRNA level of the AAT gene in a subject administered with an AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is reduced by about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99%, or more than 99% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi drug or to a subject that does not receive the AAT RNAi drug.

[0134] In some embodiments, the gene expression level and / or mRNA level of the AAT gene in a subject to which the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is administered, is determined to be the same as the AAT gene expression level and / or mRNA level in the subject or the AAT before administration of the AAT RNAi drug. Compared to subjects not receiving the RNAi drug agent, the risk decreases by approximately 5% to 10%, 10% to 15%, 15% to 20%, 20% to 25%, 25% to 30%, 30% to 35%, 35% to 40%, 40% to 45%, 45% to 50%, 50% to 55%, 55% to 60%, 60% to 65%, 65% to 70%, 70% to 75%, 75% to 80%, 80% to 85%, 85% to 90%, or 95% to 100%.

[0135] In some embodiments, the level of AAT protein in a subject administered with an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is reduced by at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or more than about 99% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi API or to a subject that does not receive the AAT RNAi API. The protein levels in the subject decrease in the subject's cells, cell populations, tissues, blood, and / or other fluids. In some embodiments, the protein levels in the subject decrease in the subject's liver cells, e.g., hepatocytes, hepatic stellate cells, hepatic cell populations, and / or liver.

[0136] In some embodiments, the level of AAT protein in a subject administered with an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is reduced by about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99%, or more than 99% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi API or to a subject that does not receive the AAT RNAi API.

[0137] In some embodiments, the level of AAT protein in a subject administered with the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is equal to the level of AAT protein in the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi drug or the AAT Compared to subjects not receiving the RNAi drug agent, the risk decreases by approximately 5% to 10%, 10% to 15%, 15% to 20%, 20% to 25%, 25% to 30%, 30% to 35%, 35% to 40%, 40% to 45%, 45% to 50%, 50% to 55%, 55% to 60%, 60% to 65%, 65% to 70%, 70% to 75%, 75% to 80%, 80% to 85%, 85% to 90%, or 95% to 100%.

[0138] In some embodiments, the level of liver Z-AAT protein in a subject having AATD administered with an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is reduced by at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or more than 99% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi API or to a subject not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0139] In some embodiments, the level of liver Z-AAT protein in subjects having AATD administered with an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is reduced by about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99%, or more than 99% compared to subjects before administration of the AAT RNAi API or subjects not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0140] In some embodiments, the level of liver Z-AAT protein in a subject having AATD administered with the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is compared to the level of liver Z-AAT protein in the subject or AAT before administration of the AAT RNAi drug. Compared to subjects not receiving the RNAi drug agent, the risk decreases by approximately 5% to 10%, 10% to 15%, 15% to 20%, 20% to 25%, 25% to 30%, 30% to 35%, 35% to 40%, 40% to 45%, 45% to 50%, 50% to 55%, 55% to 60%, 60% to 65%, 65% to 70%, 70% to 75%, 75% to 80%, 80% to 85%, 85% to 90%, or 95% to 100%.

[0141] In some embodiments, the solubility or monomer protein levels of hepatic Z-AAT in subjects having AATD administered with an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are reduced by at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or more than about 99% compared to subjects before administration of the AAT RNAi API or subjects not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0142] In some embodiments, the solubility or monomer protein levels of hepatic Z-AAT in subjects having AATD administered with an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are reduced by about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99%, or more than about 99% compared to subjects before administration of the AAT RNAi API or subjects not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0143] In some embodiments, the solubility or monomer protein levels of liver Z-AAT in a subject having AATD administered with the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are compared to the AAT RNAi drug administered to the subject or the AAT Compared to subjects not receiving the RNAi drug agent, the risk decreases by approximately 5% to 10%, 10% to 15%, 15% to 20%, 20% to 25%, 25% to 30%, 30% to 35%, 35% to 40%, 40% to 45%, 45% to 50%, 50% to 55%, 55% to 60%, 60% to 65%, 65% to 70%, 70% to 75%, 75% to 80%, 80% to 85%, 85% to 90%, or 95% to 100%.

[0144] In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 50%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 50%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 55%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 55%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 60%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 60%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 65%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 65%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 70%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 80%.In some embodiments, the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 85%. In some embodiments, the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 85%. In some embodiments, the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 90%. In some embodiments, the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT is at least about 50% to about 97%.

[0145] In some embodiments, the levels of hepatic Z-AAT insoluble or polymeric proteins in subjects administered with an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are reduced by at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 35%, at least about 40%, at least about 45%, at least about 50%, at least about 55%, at least about 60%, at least about 65%, at least about 70%, at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 96%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or more than about 99% compared to subjects before administration of the AAT RNAi API or subjects not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0146] In some embodiments, the levels of hepatic Z-AAT insoluble or polymeric proteins in subjects administered with the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are reduced by about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99%, or more than 99% compared to subjects before administration of the AAT RNAi API or subjects not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0147] In some embodiments, the level of liver Z-AAT insoluble or polymerized protein in a subject administered with the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, is reduced compared to the subject or the AAT before administration of the AAT RNAi API. Compared to subjects not receiving the RNAi drug agent, the risk decreases by approximately 5% to 10%, 10% to 15%, 15% to 20%, 20% to 25%, 25% to 30%, 30% to 35%, 35% to 40%, 40% to 45%, 45% to 50%, 50% to 55%, 55% to 60%, 60% to 65%, 65% to 70%, 70% to 75%, 75% to 80%, 80% to 85%, 85% to 90%, or 95% to 100%.

[0148] In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 40%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 40%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 45%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 45%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 50%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 50%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 55%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 55%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 60%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 65%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 65%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 70%.In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 80%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 85%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 85%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 90%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 40% to about 97%.

[0149] In some embodiments, the levels of insoluble or polymeric proteins of liver Z-AAT and the levels of soluble or monomeric proteins of Z-AAT in a subject administered with the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are as follows: Compared to subjects not receiving the RNAi drug substance, the levels decrease by at least approximately 5%, at least approximately 10%, at least approximately 15%, at least approximately 20%, at least approximately 25%, at least approximately 30%, at least approximately 35%, at least approximately 40%, at least approximately 45%, at least approximately 50%, at least approximately 55%, at least approximately 60%, at least approximately 65%, at least approximately 70%, at least approximately 75%, at least approximately 80%, at least approximately 85%, at least approximately 90%, at least approximately 95%, at least approximately 96%, at least approximately 97%, at least approximately 98%, at least approximately 99%, or more than approximately 99%.

[0150] In some embodiments, the levels of both insoluble or polymeric proteins and soluble or monomeric proteins of hepatic Z-AAT in subjects administered with the AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are reduced by about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 96%, about 97%, about 98%, about 99%, or more than 99% compared to subjects before administration of the AAT RNAi API or subjects not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0151] In some embodiments, the levels of insoluble or polymeric proteins of liver Z-AAT and the levels of soluble or monomeric proteins of Z-AAT in a subject administered with the AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, for example, ADS-001 or a salt thereof, are as follows: Compared to subjects not receiving the RNAi drug agent, the risk decreases by approximately 5% to 10%, 10% to 15%, 15% to 20%, 20% to 25%, 25% to 30%, 30% to 35%, 35% to 40%, 40% to 45%, 45% to 50%, 50% to 55%, 55% to 60%, 60% to 65%, 65% to 70%, 70% to 75%, 75% to 80%, 80% to 85%, 85% to 90%, or 95% to 100%.

[0152] In some embodiments, administering an AAT RNAi drug disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, to a subject in need results in a reduction of serum Z-AAT by at least about 70% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi drug or to a subject that does not receive the AAT RNAi drug.

[0153] In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 70%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 70%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 80%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 80%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 85%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 85%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 90%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 90%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 95%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 100%. In some embodiments, the decrease in serum Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 70% to about 100%.

[0154] In some embodiments, administering an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, to a subject in need results in a reduction of at least about 70% of total liver Z-AAT compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi API or to a subject that does not receive the AAT RNAi API.

[0155] In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 70%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 70%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 80%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 85%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 85%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 90%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 90%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 95%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 95%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 100%. In some embodiments, the reduction in total liver Z-AAT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 70% to about 100%.

[0156] In some embodiments, administering an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, to a subject in need results in a reduction of ALT by at least about 30% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi API or to a subject that does not receive the AAT RNAi API.

[0157] In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 30%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 35%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 35%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 35%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 40%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 45%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 45%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 50%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 50%. In some embodiments, the decrease in ALT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 30% to about 50%.

[0158] In some embodiments, administering an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, to a subject requiring it results in a reduction of GGT by at least about 25% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi API or to a subject not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0159] In some embodiments, the decrease in GGT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 25%. In some embodiments, the decrease in GGT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 25%. In some embodiments, the decrease in GGT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 30%. In some embodiments, the decrease in GGT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 30%. In some embodiments, the decrease in GGT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 35%. In some embodiments, the decrease in GGT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 40%. In some embodiments, the decrease in GGT after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 40%. In some embodiments, the reduction in GGT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 45%. In some embodiments, the reduction in GGT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 45%. In some embodiments, the reduction in GGT after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 25% to about 45%.

[0160] In some embodiments, administering an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, to a subject requiring it results in a reduction of Pro-C3 by at least about 15% compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi API or to a subject not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0161] In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 15%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 15%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 20%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 25%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 25%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 30%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 30%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 35%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 35%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 40%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 40%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 45%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 45%. In some embodiments, the reduction in Pro-C3 after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 50%.In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 50%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 55%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 55%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 60%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 60%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 65%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 65%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 70%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 80%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 80%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 85%. In some embodiments, the reduction in Pro-C3 after administering ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is approximately 85%.In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is at least about 90%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 90%. In some embodiments, the decrease in Pro-C3 after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to a subject requiring it is about 15% to about 90%.

[0162] In some embodiments, administering an AAT RNAi API disclosed herein, for example, a dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, to a subject in need results in a reduction of fibrosis by at least about 15%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®, compared to the subject before administration of the AAT RNAi API or to a subject not receiving the AAT RNAi API.

[0163] In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 15%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 15%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 20%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 25%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 25%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 30%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 35%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 35%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 40%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 40%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®.In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 45%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 45%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 50%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 55%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 55%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 55%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 60%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 65%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 65%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 70%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 70%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®.In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 75%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 75%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 80%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 85%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 85%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 85%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is at least about 90%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is about 90%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®. In some embodiments, the reduction in fibrosis after administration of ADS-001 or a salt thereof to subjects requiring it is about 15% to about 90%, as measured by FIBROSCAN®.

[0164] A decrease in AAT gene expression (including the PiZZ genotype), AAT mRNA (including the PiZZ genotype), or AAT protein levels (including the Z-AAT protein) can be evaluated and quantified by common methods known in the art. The examples disclosed herein illustrate commonly known methods for evaluating inhibition of AAT gene expression and a decrease in AAT protein levels. Such decrease or reduction in AAT mRNA levels and / or protein levels (including soluble and insoluble protein levels of Z-AAT) is collectively referred herein to as a decrease or reduction in AAT, or inhibition or reduction in AAT expression.

[0165] All of the above changes, such as changes in periportal hepatocytes, serum Z-AAT, hepatic Z-AAT, soluble hepatic Z-AAT, insoluble hepatic Z-AAT, ALT, GGT, Pro-C3, or steatosis, are measured relative to a predetermined threshold, the level in a subject before administration of the AAT RNAi drug, the level in a subject not administered the AAT RNAi drug, or a control level measured in a population. All of the above measurements, such as fibrosis, periportal hepatocytes, serum Z-AAT, hepatic Z-AAT, soluble hepatic Z-AAT, insoluble hepatic Z-AAT, ALT, GGT, Pro-C3, or steatosis, are performed as described in this disclosure or using methods known in the art.

[0166] As used herein, the terms “liver Z-AAT protein amount,” “liver Z-AAT protein level,” and “liver Z-AAT protein load” refer to the amount of Z-AAT protein measured in the liver of a human subject, and unless otherwise specified, such terms are used synonymously herein. Liver biopsies can be taken from a subject, as will be more fully disclosed in the non-limiting examples herein, and after homogenizing the samples, the total amount of Z-AAT protein present can be assessed. The amount of soluble Z-AAT protein present (primarily in monomeric form) can be similarly quantified, and the level of insoluble (polymeric) Z-AAT protein present can be calculated by subtracting the soluble amount from the total.

[0167] As used herein, terms such as “to treat” and “treatment” mean methods or steps taken to provide reduction or mitigation of the number, severity, and / or frequency of one or more symptoms of a disease in a subject. As used herein, “to treat” and “treatment” may include prevention, control, prophylactic treatment, and / or inhibition of the number, severity, and / or frequency of one or more symptoms of a disease in a subject.

[0168] As used herein, “monthly dose” or “monthly” means every 28 days. As used herein, “quarterly dose” or “quarterly” means every 84 days. When used in relation to monthly dose, the term “about” means monthly dose + / - 3 days. When used in relation to quarterly dose, the term “about” means quarterly dose + / - 9 days. When used in relation to the number of weeks of administration, the term “about” means + / - 1 week.

[0169] When referring to the AAT RNAi drug drugs disclosed herein, such as dsRNA comprising a sense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6 and an antisense strand consisting of SEQ ID NO: 2, such as ADS-001 or a salt thereof, the phrase “introduce into cells” means to functionally deliver the RNAi agent to cells. The phrase “functional delivery” means to deliver the RNAi agent to cells in a manner that causes the RNAi agent to have the expected biological activity, such as sequence-specific inhibition of gene expression.

[0170] Unless otherwise specified, symbols used in this specification

[0171] [ka]

[0172] The use of means that any group(s) may be linked thereto in accordance with the scope of the invention as described herein.

[0173] As used herein, each structure disclosed herein is intended to represent all such possible isomers, including their optically pure forms and racemates, unless specifically identified as having a particular conformation in the structure, for each structure in which a chiral center is present and thus gives rise to an enantiomer, diastereomer, or other stereoisomer configuration. For example, the structures disclosed herein are intended to include not only single stereoisomers but also mixtures of diastereomers.

[0174] As used in the claims herein, the phrase "consisting of" excludes any element, step, or component not specified in the claim. As used in the claims herein, the phrase "essentially consisting of" limits the claim to such a thing as not substantially affecting the specific material or step and the basic and novel features(s) of the claim.

[0175] Those skilled in the art will readily understand and recognize that the compounds and compositions disclosed herein may have certain atoms (e.g., N, O, or S atoms) in a protonated or deprotonated state, depending on the environment in which the compound or composition is located. Therefore, the structures disclosed herein, as used herein, assume that certain functional groups, such as OH, SH, or NH, may be either protonated or deprotonated. This disclosure is intended to include the compounds and compositions of this disclosure regardless of the protonation state based on the environment (e.g., pH), as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

[0176] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art. Similar or equivalent methods and materials may be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, but suitable methods and materials are described below. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references referenced herein are incorporated as a whole by reference. In the event of any conflict, including definitions, this specification shall prevail. Furthermore, such materials, methods, and examples are illustrative and not intended to be limiting.

[0177] In international patent application PCT / US20 / 36359, titled Methods For The Treatment Of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD), the applicant described data from a Phase 1 trial of the AAT RNAi drug substance (ADS-001) in healthy volunteers (HBV). For completeness, that information is shown in Example 2 and Figures 4-11 of this specification. In this application, the applicant describes initial data from an open-label Phase 2 trial in human subjects diagnosed with AATTD. Surprisingly and unexpectedly, a decrease in hepatic Z-AAT protein levels was observed after only 6 months and 3 doses of the AAT RNAi drug substance (ADS-001).

[0178] The embodiments and items described above will be explained below by non-limiting embodiments. [Examples]

[0179] Example 1. Synthesis and formulation of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) AAT RNAi APIs suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein can be synthesized using standard phosphoramidite techniques in solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis known in the art. Commercial oligonucleotide synthesizers (e.g., MERMADE96E® (Bioautomation) or MERMADE12® (Bioautomation)) may be used. Synthesis can be carried out on a solid support made of controlled-pore glass (CPG, 500 Å or 600 Å, available from Prime Synthesis, Aston, PA, USA). Monomers located at the 3' end of each strand can be bound to this solid support as a starting point for synthesis. All RNAs, 2'-modified RNA phosphoramidites, and inverted debasic phosphoramidites are commercially available. Target-directed group-containing phosphoramidites suitable for addition to the 5' end of the sense strand can be synthesized. Standard cleavage, deprotection, purification, and annealing steps known in the art can be used. Further descriptions relating to the synthesis of AAT RNAi agents can be found, for example, in International Patent Application Publications WO2018 / 132432 (Application No. PCT / US2018 / 013102) and WO2018 / 044350 (PCT / US2017 / 021147), each of which is incorporated herein by reference as a whole. The AAT RNAi drug substance can then be formulated by dissolving it in standard pharmaceutically acceptable excipients commonly known in the art. For example, Tables 3.1 and 3.2 show formulated AAT RNAi drug substances suitable for use in the methods disclosed herein.

[0180] Example 2. Phase I clinical trial of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) in healthy human volunteers (NHV). The following examples were previously presented in International Patent Application No. PCT / US20 / 36359, titled Methods For The Treatment Of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD), and the applicant wishes to repeat that information here for completeness.

[0181] Phase 1, single-dose and multi-dose dose-escalation studies were conducted to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and effects on serum AAT levels of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) in healthy volunteers (NHV). The subject population of this study consisted of individuals aged 18–52 years with a BMI of 19.0–35.0 kg / m². 2 This includes healthy adult men and women.

[0182] NHV subjects were divided into a total of seven cohorts. Cohorts 1-4 were randomized to receive either the AAT RNAi drug or placebo (active substance 4: placebo 4) administered as a single dose of 35 mg (Cohort 1) followed by multiple doses of 100 mg (Cohort 2), 200 mg (Cohort 3), and 300 mg (Cohort 4) via subcutaneous injection. Cohorts 1-4 were double-blinded. Cohorts 2b, 3b, and 4b were open-label, consisting of four subjects each receiving a single dose of 100, 200, and 300 mg of the AAT RNAi drug. A total of 44 subjects completed the study. Figure 4 shows the final study design of the Phase I clinical trial. The study parameters are summarized in Table 4 below.

[0183] [Table 9-1]

[0184] [Table 9-2]

[0185] [Table 9-3]

[0186] The results of this study showed that administering the AAT RNAi drug at doses of 35–300 mg significantly reduced serum AAT compared to placebo. Initially, a cohort receiving 400 mg of the AAT RNAi drug per dose was proposed as part of this clinical trial protocol. However, considering the unexpected efficacy at doses of 35, 100, 200, and 300 mg, the 400 mg cohort was excluded from this study protocol. In this Phase I study, serum AAT was significantly reduced at doses of 35 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg, with both 100 mg and 200 mg achieving an average serum AAT reduction of approximately 90% after multiple doses. Figures 5–11 report on the serum AAT reduction in various cohorts in this Phase I study.

[0187] Surprisingly and unexpectedly, no clear dose-dependent response was observed across all dose levels, as significant knockdown (reaching approximately 90%) occurred at 100 mg and 200 mg dose levels, similar to that at the higher 300 mg dose. Even at the lowest dose of 35 mg, the drug was quite active, but not as active as the 100 mg administered as a single dose, and showed some dose-response.

[0188] The duration of the serum AAT reduction (>58%) following a single 35 mg dose was longer than initially expected, lasting up to 16 weeks post-dose before returning to baseline. For example, 34 weeks after a single 35 mg dose, one subject's serum AAT level returned to over 90 mg / dL, while another subject's serum AAT level remained at 40 mg / dL (a 60.4% decrease from baseline). There was no significant difference in the duration of response with single doses of 100 mg to 300 mg of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients, with levels returning to baseline between 8 and 16 weeks post-dose.

[0189] Multiple doses of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredients generally maintain a significant reduction in serum AAT for a longer period than a single dose. These data suggest that a second dose received on day 29 (i.e., one month after the first dose) may further reduce or maintain serum AAT levels, and that subsequent doses may be administered every 12 weeks (i.e., every 3 months) to maintain the maximum reduction in serum AAT.

[0190] In this Phase I trial, there were no deaths, serious adverse events (SAEs), or adverse events (AEs) rated as severe. Two subjects across all subjects receiving the AAT RNAi drug reported three moderate-intensity AEs (upper respiratory tract infection, rhinorrhea, and general chest pain). Three subjects across all subjects receiving placebo reported three moderate-intensity AEs (two gastroenteritis episodes and musculoskeletal chest pain - left side). All other AEs were reported as mild. The majority of subjects reported AEs unrelated to the study treatment. One AE in a subject receiving AAT led to early discontinuation of treatment, but this subject was continued follow-up in the trial. 94 AEs were reported in 28 subjects who received at least a single dose of the formulated AAT RNAi drug. 46 AEs were reported in 17 subjects who received placebo. There was no clear pattern of increased frequency or intensity of AEs with dose escalation.

[0191] Across the entire cohort of formulated AAT RNAi APIs, six subjects experienced six injection-site adverse events (AEs), all of which occurred in subjects receiving the drug. Placebo subjects experienced no injection-site AEs. Reported injection-site reactions included bruising, erythema, and pain at the injection site. These combined injection-site AEs were reported in 21.4% of subjects receiving formulated AAT RNAi APIs. Six out of 50 injections of formulated AAT RNAi APIs, or 12%, resulted in injection-site AEs. No single subject reported more than one injection-site AE. All injection-site AEs were considered mild in severity.

[0192] Example 3. Phase II clinical trial of AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) in patients with AAT-related liver disease. A pilot, open-label, multi-dose, phase 2 trial was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ARO-AAT in patients with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency-related liver disease (AATD). The subject population of this trial included AAT-eligible patients with PiZZ aged 18–75 years (based on baseline completed genotype or genotype from source-verifiable documentation).

[0193] The PiZZ subjects were divided into a total of three cohorts. All subjects were required to undergo a liver biopsy before their first dose. Figure 12 shows the study design for the Phase II clinical trial.

[0194] Cohorts 1 and 1b consist of up to four subjects receiving the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient in a total of three doses, either 200 mg (Cohort 1) or 100 mg (Cohort 1b) administered subcutaneously. Administration is performed on day 1, 4 weeks after the first dose, and 12 weeks after the second dose. A second biopsy is performed 24 weeks after the third dose (approximately 40 weeks or 6 months after the first dose).

[0195] Cohort 2 consists of up to eight subjects receiving the AAT RNAi active ingredient in a total of five 200 mg subcutaneous injections. Administrations are given on day 1, 4 weeks after the first dose, 12 weeks after the second dose, 12 weeks after the third dose, and 12 weeks after the fourth dose (i.e., on day 1, and at weeks 4, 16, 28, and 40). A second biopsy is performed 48 weeks after the third dose (approximately 88 weeks or 1 year after the first dose).

[0196] The test parameters are summarized in Table 5 below.

[0197] [Table 10-1]

[0198] [Table 10-2]

[0199] [Table 10-3]

[0200] Cohort 1 In Cohort 1, the reduction in serum Z-AAT was observed when the AAT RNAi drug was administered at a dose of 200 mg, resulting in a significant decrease in both serum and total liver Z-AAT protein levels (see, for example, Figure 13).

[0201] Serum Z-AAT was quantitatively measured via trypsin peptides containing the Z-AAT mutation using UHPLC-MS / MS. Total and soluble liver Z-AAT protein was also quantitatively measured via trypsin peptides containing the Z-AAT mutation using UHPLC-MS / MS. After homogenization of liver tissue, the level of total Z-AAT protein was measured using UHPLC-MS / MS. Separate aliquots were then centrifuged to separate the soluble and insoluble fractions. After separation, the level of Z-AAT protein in the soluble fraction was evaluated using UHPLC-MS / MS. The unmeasured fraction (insoluble) was obtained by subtracting the measured soluble fraction from the total amount of liver Z-AAT protein measured.

[0202] Alternatively, the Z-AAT protein can be quantitatively or semi-quantitatively measured using methods such as Western blotting or semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry, by employing probes or antibodies specific to the Z-AAT protein. Such methods are generally known, and reagents and tools are commercially available or, in other cases, within the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0203] Table 6 below shows, in particular, the levels of whole liver (i.e., intrahepatic) Z-AAT protein, monomeric (soluble) liver Z-AAT protein, polymeric (insoluble) liver Z-AAT protein, ALT enzyme levels, and GGT enzyme levels. FIBROSCAN® evaluations were performed for each subject both pre-administration liver biopsy and at 24 weeks, with additional evaluations performed for each subject at 52 weeks. These results are also shown in Table 6.

[0204] [Table 11]

[0205] As shown in Table 6 above, each subject achieved a reduction of over 70% in total liver Z-AAT protein levels (Δ%) and over 80% in monomeric (soluble) liver Z-AAT protein levels. Furthermore, all but one subject showed a reduction in polymeric (insoluble) liver Z-AAT protein levels, with three out of four subjects showing a reduction of 68-97% in Z-AAT polymeric (insoluble) protein levels.

[0206] The decrease in liver Z-AAT protein levels also resulted in improvements in clinically relevant biomarkers, including a 36–66% reduction in ALT and a 43–58% reduction in GGT in all subjects compared to baseline at week 24.

[0207] All subjects further showed improvement in their FIBROSCAN® scores, with three out of four subjects showing a decrease of more than 20% compared to baseline at week 24. In addition, three out of four patients showed a decrease of 31–51% in the fibrosis biomarker Pro-C3 at week 24.

[0208] Histological evaluations of baseline and 24-week liver biopsies were performed by two pathologists, with a third pathologist acting as adjudicator in case of discrepancies in evaluation. At 24 weeks, all subjects showed improvement in at least one histological parameter, e.g., portal venous inflammation, lobular inflammation, interface hepatitis, hepatocyte death, and fibrosis (Metavir), compared to their respective baseline biopsies. Two subjects showed improvement in fibrosis, and two subjects did not experience worsening of fibrosis. All subjects showed neither worsening nor improvement in portal venous inflammation. Furthermore, all subjects showed improvement in Z-AAT load, which was assessed by PAS+D (periodate Schiff plus diastase) staining, as shown in Table 7 below.

[0209] [Table 12] Serum samples taken from cohort 1 subjects at week 52 still showed similar decreases from baseline in ALT, GGT, and serum Z-AAT levels as those at week 24, as shown in Table 6.

[0210] Cohort 2 In Cohort 2, preliminary serum Z-AAT declines up to 16 weeks in five patients are shown in Figure 14, demonstrating a similar decline in Z-AAT protein levels to that observed at 24 weeks in Cohort 1.

[0211] Table 8 below, at week 48, shows, in particular, the levels of whole liver (i.e., intrahepatic) Z-AAT protein, monomeric (soluble) liver Z-AAT protein, polymeric (insoluble) liver Z-AAT protein, ALT enzyme levels, and GGT enzyme levels for the first five subjects in Cohort 2 who reached week 48. FIBROSCAN® assessments were performed for each subject both pre-treatment liver biopsy and at week 48. These results are also shown in Table 8.

[0212] [Table 13]

[0213] As shown in Table 8 above, each reported subject achieved a reduction of over 75% in both total liver Z-AAT protein levels (Δ%) and monomeric (soluble) liver Z-AAT protein levels. Furthermore, all subjects showed a reduction in polymeric (insoluble) liver Z-AAT protein levels, with four of the five reported subjects showing a reduction of 80-97% in Z-AAT polymeric (insoluble) protein levels, and one subject showing a 42.4% reduction.

[0214] The decrease in liver Z-AAT protein levels also resulted in improvements in clinically relevant biomarkers, including a 34–61% reduction in ALT and a 26–44% reduction in GGT in all subjects compared to baseline at week 48.

[0215] All reported subjects showed improvement in their FIBROSCAN® scores, with decreases of 17.7%, 17.0%, 67.8%, and 35.6%, respectively (measurements were taken for only 4 out of 5 subjects). Furthermore, all 5 patients showed a decrease of 18–37% in the fibrosis biomarker Pro-C3 at week 48.

[0216] At week 48, four out of five subjects showed at least a 1-point improvement in fibrosis (METAVIR), and the fifth subject did not show any worsening of fibrosis. Portal venous inflammation improved in three out of five subjects, and did not worsen in the other two. Furthermore, all subjects showed improvement in Z-AAT load, which was assessed by PAS+D (periodate Schiff plus diastase) staining.

[0217] Histological evaluation of cohorts 1 and 2 Histological evaluation of liver biopsies at 24 weeks (for Cohort 1) and 48 weeks (for Cohort 2) was performed by two independent pathologists in a blinded manner (for patients and time points), with a third pathologist involved if the evaluation differed between the first two pathologists. Fibrosis stage was scored using METAVIR, and Z-AAT microcytosis load was scored on a scale of 0 to 3 (3 being the most severe or greatest load) based on positive PAS+D staining for each of the following: extent of portal ducts containing microcysts, extent of periportal hepatocytes containing microcysts, and zone location. Major histological features showing improvement of 1 point or more are reported in Table 9 below.

[0218] [Table 14]

[0219] Data available from cohorts 1 and 2 show that ARO-AAT treatment led to a consistent and significant reduction in both Z-AAT monomer and Z-AAT polymer in hepatic Z-AAT proteins, a consistent reduction in histological microcytosis load, improvement in fibrosis, and improvement in other biomarkers of liver health. Furthermore, histological improvement in steatosis was observed in subjects with baseline fatty liver disease.

[0220] Summary of test safety In the Phase II trial, by March 15, 2021, the data extraction date, 16 subjects had received a total of 71 doses (59 doses of 200 mg and 12 doses of 100 mg), with no deaths or dropouts due to adverse events. ARO-AAT was generally well-tolerated after up to one year of administration. There were no discontinuations of the study drug, interruptions of administration, or early withdrawal from the study due to adverse events (TEAEs) that occurred during administration. Three serious adverse events (SAEs)—viral myocarditis, diverticulitis, and dyspnea—were reported in the 200 mg cohort. All were of moderate severity and all resolved. Viral myocarditis was associated with EBV infection; diverticulitis occurred in a 63-year-old subject with risk factors, namely the PiZZ genotype and a history of appendectomy; and dyspnea occurred in a subject with a history of non-obstructive emphysema and delayed pulmonary treatment. The AAT RNAi drug was well tolerable, with no definitive safety signals observed from baseline to 48 weeks, including no clinically significant decrease in ppFEV1 (predicted percentage of forced expiratory volume in one second).

[0221] Updated summary of data for cohorts 1, 2, and 1b up to the data extraction date of August 30, 2021. As described above, a total of 16 homozygous PiZZ subjects participated in the Phase 2 clinical trial. Cohorts 1 and 1b consisted of four subjects each receiving a total of three doses of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) as subcutaneous injections of 200 mg (Cohort 1) or 100 mg (Cohort 1b) on day 1, 4 weeks after the first dose, and 12 weeks after the second dose. Cohort 2 consisted of eight subjects each receiving a total of five doses of the AAT RNAi API as subcutaneous injections of 200 mg on day 1, 4 weeks after the first dose, 12 weeks after the second dose, 12 weeks after the third dose, and 12 weeks after the fourth dose (i.e., on day 1, and at weeks 4, 16, 28, and 40). The mean age was 52 years (range 20–66 years), and 14 of the 16 subjects were male.

[0222] Comparative biopsies were collected at baseline and post-baseline (weeks 24 and 48 for groups 1 and 2, and week 24 for group 1b), and comparative biopsies were available for 14 of the 16 subjects as of the cutoff data extraction date of August 30, 2021. Histology was evaluated and adjudicated by three blinded pathologists for each subject and time point. Primary endpoints included METAVIR fibrosis, liver Z-AAT levels, and total microcellular load (sum of PAS+D staining for portal duct extent and periportal hepatocellular lesions in zone 1 and zone location).

[0223] Of the 14 subjects who underwent comparative biopsies, 11 had a METAVIR fibrosis stage of F2 or higher at baseline. ARO-AAT significantly reduced serum Z-AAT protein in all patients after initial administration, and this reduction persisted throughout observation. The mean percentage reduction in total liver Z-AAT protein was 80%–89% at 24 or 48 weeks. Microcytosis load decreased in all patients (mean score of 7.3 (max. 9) at baseline decreased to mean score of 2.5 at 24 or 48 weeks). Of the 11 patients who received 200 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient (i.e., subjects from cohorts 1 and 2), improvement in fibrosis (one stage or more) was achieved in 6 patients, while none of the 3 patients who received a 100 mg dose (cohort 1b) showed improvement. Two patients in Cohort 2 showed worsening fibrosis from baseline to 48 weeks (both from F2 to F3), but nevertheless both subjects showed a significant decrease in microbulb loading (baseline scores were 9 and 4, respectively, and both scored 0 at 48 weeks), and ALT and GGT levels normalized after administration.

[0224] All groups showed normalization of ALT and GGT. The mean percentage reduction in ALT ranged from 42% to 56%, and from 33% to 54% between 28 and 72 weeks.

[0225] ARO-AAT was well-tolerated, with no clinically significant sustained changes in ppFEV1 from baseline, and no adverse events leading to discontinuation of the study or the study drug. Four SAEs (Surface-Affected Endocrine Embolisms) were reported: EBV-related myocarditis, diverticulitis, dyspnea, and vestibular neuritis.

[0226] A specific summary of data is shown in Table 10 below.

[0227] [Table 15]

[0228] In short, ARO-AAT reduced serum and hepatic Z-AAT and microcytometer load in all patients. These data suggest that removing Z-AAT, a causative factor of AATD liver disease, may improve disease activity and lead to improved fibrosis.

[0229] Other Embodiments While the present invention has been described in relation to embodiments for carrying it out, the foregoing description is not intended to define, but rather to limit, the scope of the invention, which should be understood to be defined in the appended claims. Other embodiments, advantages, and modifications are within the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for reducing the level of liver Z-AAT protein in human subjects having the PiZZ genotype of alpha-1 antitrypsin, a. The initial dose of the pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active ingredient listed in Table 2 is administered to the subject at a dose of approximately 5 mg to approximately 300 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient. b. The subject shall be given a second dose of the pharmaceutical composition approximately four weeks or one month after the first dose, and c. The subject receives a third dose of the pharmaceutical composition approximately 12 weeks or 3 months after the second dose. The method comprising the above, wherein the administration is performed by subcutaneous injection.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient is approximately 25 mg to approximately 300 mg.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient is approximately 25 mg to approximately 200 mg.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient is about 100 mg to about 200 mg.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient is approximately 100 mg.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient is approximately 200 mg.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient is approximately 200 mg or less.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the level of soluble liver Z-AAT protein is reduced.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the level of insoluble liver Z-AAT protein is reduced.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein both the level of insoluble liver Z-AAT protein and the level of soluble liver Z-AAT protein are reduced.

11. Furthermore, the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising administering a further dose after the third dose, wherein the further dose is administered thereafter approximately every 12 weeks or approximately every 3 months.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the level of the liver Z-AAT protein decreases within six months from the first administration.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the level of the liver Z-AAT protein decreases within approximately one year from the initial administration.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the level of the Z-AAT protein decreases after administration of only three doses of the AAT RNAi drug substance.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the liver does not show worsening of fibrosis or shows improvement.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the liver enzymes ALT, GGT, or both are reduced.

17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the fiber formation marker Pro-C3 is reduced.

18. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, which reduces portal vein hepatitis.

19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the non-invasive measurement of liver stiffness by transient elastography (FibroScan®) is improved.

20. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the subject is further administered an additional therapeutic agent for the treatment of AATD.

21. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the subject is further administered a therapeutic agent for the treatment of lung injury, emphysema, or other lung disease or disorder caused by a deficiency of endogenously secreted AAT protein.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the further therapeutic agent comprises human AAT protein, purified human alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor, or recombinant AAT protein.

23. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the pharmaceutical composition is packaged in a kit, container, pack, dispenser, pre-filled syringe, or vial.

24. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the pharmaceutical composition comprises, consists of, or is essentially derived from a formulated AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient as described in Table 3.1 or Table 3.

2.

25. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the administration of the pharmaceutical composition one or more times is performed by the subject.

26. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the administration of the pharmaceutical composition, one or more times, is performed by a medical professional.

27. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the subject is an adult.

28. A method for treating AATD in human subjects having the alpha-1 antitrypsin PiZZ genotype, a. The initial dose of the pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi active ingredient listed in Table 2 is administered to the subject at a dose of approximately 5 mg to approximately 300 mg of the AAT RNAi active ingredient. b. The subject shall be given a second dose of the pharmaceutical composition approximately four weeks or one month after the first dose, and c. The subject receives a third dose of the pharmaceutical composition approximately 12 weeks or 3 months after the second dose. The method comprising the above, wherein the administration is performed by subcutaneous injection.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein the condition or disease caused by the AATD is a liver disease.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein the liver disease is chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, hypertransaminasemia, cholestasis, fibrosis, or fulminant hepatic failure.

31. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient is about 100 mg to about 200 mg.

32. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the dose of the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient is about 200 mg or less.

33. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 32, wherein the level of monomeric (soluble) liver Z-AAT protein is reduced.

34. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 33, wherein the level of insoluble liver Z-AAT protein is reduced.

35. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 34, wherein both the level of insoluble liver Z-AAT protein and the level of soluble liver Z-AAT protein are reduced.

36. Furthermore, the method according to any one of claims 28 to 35, comprising administering a further dose after the third dose, wherein the further dose is administered thereafter approximately every 12 weeks or approximately every 3 months.

37. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 36, wherein the level of the liver Z-AAT protein decreases within approximately six months from the initial administration.

38. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 36, wherein the level of the liver Z-AAT protein decreases within approximately one year from the initial administration.

39. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 38, wherein the level of the Z-AAT protein decreases after administration of only three doses of the AAT RNAi drug substance.

40. Upon administration of the pharmaceutical composition containing the AAT RNAi drug substance (ADS-001) described in Table 2 to the human subject, (i) Reduction in fibrosis, (ii) Decreased levels of periportal hepatocytes, (iii) Decreased serum Z-AAT, (iv) Decrease in total liver Z-AAT, (v) Decrease in soluble liver Z-AAT, (vi) Decrease in insoluble liver Z-AAT, (vii) Decline in ALT, (viiii) Decrease in GGT, (ix) Decrease in Pro-C3, (x) Histological improvement of steatosis, (xi) combinations of those The method according to any one of claims 1 to 39, which brings about the following.

41. The method according to claim 40, wherein the decrease in serum Z-AAT is at least about 70%.

42. The method according to claim 40, wherein the decrease in serum Z-AAT is approximately 70% to approximately 100%.

43. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in the total liver Z-AAT is at least about 70%.

44. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in the total liver Z-AAT is approximately 70% to approximately 100%.

45. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT is at least about 50%.

46. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in soluble liver Z-AAT is approximately 50% to approximately 97%.

47. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT is at least about 40%.

48. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in insoluble liver Z-AAT is approximately 40% to approximately 97%.

49. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in ALT is at least about 30%.

50. The method according to claim 40, wherein the decrease in ALT is approximately 30% to approximately 75%.

51. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in GGT is at least about 25%.

52. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in GGT is approximately 25% to approximately 85%.

53. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in fibrosis is measured by FIBROSCAN® and is at least about 15%.

54. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reduction in fibrosis is measured by FIBROSCAN® and is approximately 15% to approximately 90%.

55. The method according to claim 40, wherein the decrease in Pro-C3 is at least about 15%.

56. The method according to claim 40, wherein the decrease in Pro-C3 is approximately 15% to approximately 90%.

57. The method according to claim 40, wherein the human subject has histological improvement of steatosis.

58. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 57, wherein administration of the pharmaceutical composition comprising the AAT RNAi active pharmaceutical ingredient (ADS-001) described in Table 2 to a human subject results in improvement of fibrosis, portal venitis, interface hepatitis, panportunistic lesions, PAS+D zone location, zone 1 "microglobule" periportal lesions, or any combination thereof.

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