China-based Huadong Medicine Co., Ltd (SHE: 000963) and Japanese firm Scohia Pharma Inc. have announced an expanded global strategic partnership for the GLP-1R and GIPR dual agonist SCO-094 and its derivatives. This collaboration aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of SCO-094, a promising treatment for type 2 diabetes, obesity, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
Initial Licensing Agreement and Expansion
Huadong first entered into a licensing deal with Scohia in June 2021, securing exclusive development, manufacturing, and commercialization rights to SCO-094 in China, South Korea, and Australia, among a total of 25 markets in the Asia-Pacific region (excluding Japan). The latest expansion means that Huadong will now hold exclusive rights to SCO-094 and its derivatives globally, including Japan.
SCO-094: Drug Profile and Clinical Progress
SCO-094 is a dual agonist targeting GLP-1R and GIPR, currently under development for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and NASH. The drug has entered Phase I clinical trials in the UK. Pre-clinical in vitro studies have shown that SCO-094 demonstrates strong target binding and cell biological activities. Animal drug efficacy studies have indicated that the product candidate exerts a powerful hypoglycemic effect, helps patients lose weight, improves liver functions, and lowers triglycerides, while inhibiting liver steatosis.
Strategic Implications
The expanded global partnership between Huadong Medicine and Scohia Pharma represents a significant strategic move. By securing global rights to SCO-094, Huadong is well-positioned to leverage its development and commercialization capabilities to bring this innovative treatment to patients worldwide. This collaboration is expected to enhance Huadong’s portfolio in metabolic diseases and contribute to the global effort to address the growing challenges of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and NASH.-Fineline Info & Tech
