By Fineline Cube 
China-based Ascletis Pharma Inc. (HKG: 1672) announced that the first participants with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related comorbidity have been dosed in a U.S. 12-week Phase 2a study (NCT06679959) for its once-monthly subcutaneous (SQ) depot formulation of the small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist ASC30. Topline data from the trial are expected in the first quarter of 2026.
ASC30 Mechanism and Development
ASC30 is an investigational GLP-1 receptor biased small molecule agonist. The proprietary SQ depot slow-release formulation of ASC30 was developed using Ascletis’ Ultra-Long-Acting Platform (ULAP). This innovative formulation supports once-monthly administration, offering a convenient dosing schedule for patients.
Clinical Trial Progress
In the completed U.S. Phase 1b single ascending dose (SAD) study, the ultra-long-acting SQ depot formulation of ASC30 demonstrated a 36-day half-life in participants with obesity. This pharmacokinetic profile underscores the potential for ASC30 to provide sustained therapeutic effects with less frequent dosing.-Fineline Info & Tech