NorthStrive Biosciences Inc., a subsidiary of PMGC Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ELAB), has executed a First Amendment to its Development and License Agreement with Yuva Biosciences, Inc., launching a structured three-phase Expansion Program to advance four AI-discovered compounds toward lead compound nomination for cardiac disease and obesity applications.

The Expansion Program builds on Phase III results announced July 1, 2026, in which four small-molecule candidates selected by Yuva Biosciences' MitoNova AI platform showed statistically significant increases in ANT1, a mitochondrial protein involved in skeletal muscle energy metabolism, in primary human skeletal muscle cells. The program is expected to take approximately six months.

The three sequential phases are designed to establish a qualified assay, confirm ANT1 induction in differentiated human myotubes, rank compounds on a go/no-go basis, and ultimately profile lead candidates against Yuva Biosciences' Mitochondrial Biogenesis Panel. The program is structured to conclude with the nomination of a lead compound and a designated backup for IND-enabling development.

The amendment also clarifies and strengthens NorthStrive Biosciences' exclusive field of use in cardiac diseases and obesity, and adds a right of first refusal to negotiate an exclusive license across the broader cardiometabolic field during the term of the agreement and for one year following Phase III completion.

Yuva Biosciences is expected to begin Expansion Phase I assay development, with subsequent phases executed sequentially. PMGC said it plans to provide updates at key milestones, including Phase II confirmation results and the Phase III lead compound nomination.

The results referenced are based on in vitro testing and are preliminary. The companies have not provided assurance that any candidate will advance to clinical development or receive regulatory approval.