By Fineline Cube 
US-based biotech BioAge Labs, Inc. announced an option agreement with China’s JiKang Therapeutics, potentially securing a license for a novel apelin receptor (APJ) agonist nanobody. Additionally, BioAge has filed a provisional patent application covering proprietary small-molecule APJ agonists developed in-house.
APJ Agonist Potential
Apelin, an exercise-induced signaling molecule identified by BioAge, was discovered through its research platform. Higher circulating apelin levels correlate with improved physical function and longevity in human aging cohorts. Preclinical obesity models showed that APJ agonists doubled the weight-loss effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists while restoring metabolic health and enhancing muscle function.
BioAge’s Market Strategy
BioAge plans to advance oral and subcutaneous APJ agonists to meet diverse weight-loss market needs, aiming to submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for one of its APJ candidates by 2026. Under the agreement, BioAge and JiKang will jointly progress the APJ agonist nanobody through pre-IND studies.
Collaboration Terms
BioAge holds exclusive negotiation rights for global licensing. If exercised, BioAge will assume full responsibility for the drug’s development and commercialization across all indications. JiKang will receive upfront payments, research funding, and additional option fees, milestone payments, and tiered royalties tied to development, regulatory approval, and sales.-Fineline Info & Tech