AI-powered therapy offers hope for rare familial polyposis

Recursion Pharmaceuticals has announced promising results from its ongoing early- to mid-stage trial evaluating its AI-powered treatment, REC-4881, for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

FAP is a rare genetic condition that leads to the development of precancerous growths in the colon. The trial demonstrated that the investigational drug significantly reduced polyp growth, offering new hope for patients living with this rare disease.

The study involved 12 patients with FAP who were treated with REC-4881 over a 12-week period. Results showed a median reduction of 43% in polyp burden, with three-quarters of participants experiencing measurable improvements. The benefits continued even after the cessation of treatment, with an average reduction of 53£ observed at week 25.

REC-4881 has been developed using Recursion’s advanced AI-driven drug discovery platform, backed by NVIDIA. The treatment targets a key pathway involved in polyp formation. REC-4881 was well-tolerated, with most side effects reported as mild to moderate. Previous treatment options for FAP often required invasive surgeries like a colectomy to manage the risk of colorectal cancer.

Recursion plans to expand the trial to include younger participants, as the disease typically manifests in adolescence or early adulthood. The company’s use of artificial intelligence in drug development continues to attract attention, with REC-4881 serving as a prime example of how technology can accelerate breakthroughs in healthcare. As the trial progresses, Recursion remains focused on advancing this therapy and addressing the unmet needs of the FAP community.

Source:

Recursion Pharma's AI-powered therapy reduces polyp growth in a rare disease trial [Accessed December 9, 2025] https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/recursion-pharmas-ai-powered-therapy-reduces-colon-growth-rare-disease-trial-2025-12-08/