Parion Sciences Inc, formerly known as CYFI Inc, is working on treatment of diseases resulting from defects of the innate defenses provided by mucosal surfaces. Parions novel technologies target pulmonary and ocular diseases in which the ability to protect the mucosal surface is compromised. The lungs and eye are covered with a protective liquid layer, which is critical for the maintenance, function and clearance infectious/toxic substances. The volume of superficial fluid is regulated by the epithelium via ion transport processes, which control the movement of water onto or away from the epithelial surface. Generally, epithelial and mucosal hydration is maintained through a balance of chloride secretion (hydrating) and sodium absorption (dehydrating). Sometimes, either through genetics, aging or environmental stimulus, the innate mucusal defense system can become compromised. Diseases such as cystic fibrosis, COPD, and dry eye are characterized by an insufficient amount of this protective fluid, leading to epithelial damage and chronic inflammation. The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) provides the rate-limiting step for epithelial sodium (and water) absorption. Inhibition of ENaC shifts the epithelium from absorptive to secretory, resulting in increased hydration of the mucosal surface. Parion Sciences has developed a proprietary series of potent and specific ENaC blockers specifically for pulmonary and ophthalmic indications designed to produce long-lasting epithelial and mucosal hydration. The company was originally founded to advance the firms proprietary epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) blockers for pulmonary disease. Parion Sciences is a development stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to research, development and commercialization of treatments to improve and extend the lives of patients with innate mucosal surface defense deficiencies of the lung or eye. Parion has a diverse pipeline of pre- clinical and clinical candidates for the treatment of these diseases via distinctive mechanisms of action and approaches. Parion is at the forefront of ENaC development and leverages its scientific expertise in epithelial biology to expand the company's platforms and novel chemical compounds into new potential indications to treat mucosal defects. Parion has received grant funding from the National Institutes of Health and continues to have a long-standing and valued relationship with Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Therapeutics, Inc.
