LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Avant Technologies Inc. and Austrianova are highlighting new research from the Mayo Clinic that links low levels of the protein α-Klotho to poorer cardiovascular outcomes, including increased mortality. The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, examined 148 patients and found that reduced α-Klotho levels were associated with arterial stiffness, endothelial dysfunction, vascular calcification and significantly decreased survival.
According to the study, low α-Klotho levels correlated with vascular calcification not only in people with chronic kidney disease but also in individuals without kidney disease. The researchers also reported that reduced α-Klotho was independently connected to higher mortality regardless of age, sex or other health conditions. The authors wrote that additional research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind α-Klotho’s role in vascular aging and calcification and to identify potential treatments.
A joint venture between Avant and Austrianova, called Klothonova, is developing a cell-based therapy intended to replenish circulating α-Klotho in patients. The investigational approach uses genetically modified human cells engineered to continuously produce the protein. The cells are encapsulated using Austrianova’s Cell-in-a-Box technology, which is designed to shield them from immune rejection while allowing sustained protein release.
Dr. Brian Salmons, CEO of Austrianova, said the Mayo Clinic findings strengthen the rationale for efforts to raise α-Klotho levels in age-related conditions. “This landmark publication by Prof. Amir Lerman’s team at Mayo Clinic provides compelling clinical evidence linking lower α-Klotho levels to cardiovascular disease progression and mortality,” he said. “By encapsulating α-Klotho-producing cells with our proven Cell-in-a-Box platform — already demonstrated as safe and effective in human cancer trials — we believe we can meaningfully elevate systemic α-Klotho levels and positively impact cardiovascular disease and other age-related conditions associated with Klotho deficiency.”
Chris Winter, CEO of Avant Technologies, said the growing scientific literature points to α-Klotho’s central role in aging. “An ever-growing body of scientific literature, including this new Mayo Clinic study, confirms α-Klotho as a master regulator of aging and longevity,” he said. “The age-related decline in α-Klotho is implicated in a wide range of chronic diseases that appear reversible when Klotho levels are restored. Our encapsulated cell therapy approach has the potential to be a true game-changer — not only for cardiovascular health but for healthy longevity in general.”
The study also notes that low α-Klotho levels have been associated with diabetes, peripheral arterial disease and other age-related conditions that can precede more severe cardiovascular problems, underscoring the protein’s broader importance in maintaining vascular health.
