Sino-US biotech company Laekna, Inc. (HKG: 2105) has announced a significant clinical cooperation agreement with US pharmaceutical major Eli Lilly & Co., (NYSE: LLY), aimed at accelerating the global clinical development of Laekna’s obesity treatment candidate, LAE102. Under the terms of the agreement, Lilly will take on the responsibility for conducting a Phase I study in the United States and covering associated expenses, while Laekna maintains global rights for LAE102. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.
LAE102: A Novel Antagonistic Monoclonal Antibody Targeting ActRIIA
LAE102 is an innovative antagonistic monoclonal antibody (mAb) that targets Activin Receptor Type 2 A (ActRIIA), a novel target implicated in the regulation of muscle regeneration and lipid metabolism. This drug candidate has demonstrated the potential, when combined with a GLP1R agonist, to further reduce fat mass and significantly counteract the lean mass loss induced by GLP1R agonist. Pre-clinical models have shown that LAE102 can increase lean mass while decreasing fat mass, making it a promising candidate for obesity treatment.
LAE102’s Clinical Progress in the US
LAE102 received clearance for a clinical study in obesity in the US in April of this year, marking a significant step forward in its development. With Eli Lilly’s involvement in the Phase I study, the partnership signifies a strategic move to bolster the global clinical development of this potential obesity treatment.-Fineline Info & Tech
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