Diabetes Day

As Diabetes Day 2025 brings global attention to diabetes and its complications, diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) stands out as a debilitating condition affecting up to 50% of diabetes patients. DPN, characterized by chronic pain, numbness, and tingling primarily in hands and feet, significantly reduces quality of life and currently lacks disease-modifying treatments. Peripheral neuropathy also affects approximately 8% of the global population, with over 6 million cases in the UK alone. Historically neglected by pharmaceutical companies, progress began through collaborations between the US and Canadian governments and leading scientists, notably Dr. Paul Fernyhough, whose research laid the groundwork for WinSanTor.

WinSanTor, a San Diego-based clinical-stage biotechnology company, aims to address this critical unmet need with its investigational drug, WST-057, a topical cream reformulated from an ulcer medication that promotes nerve regeneration rather than masking pain. Currently undergoing Phase 2 clinical trials in Canada, WST-057 represents the first potential disease-modifying therapy for DPN, with Phase 3 trials set to begin in the UK soon. Supported by organizations like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), WinSanTor emphasizes patient-focused care through compassionate use programs in the US.

Aston spoke to CEO & co-founder of WinSanTor Stanley Kim.