Ascletis Pharma's ASC30 Shows Promising Results in U.S. Phase Ib Obesity Trial

Ascletis Pharma Reports Positive Phase Ib Trial Results for ASC30

Ascletis Pharma Inc., listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, has made headlines after announcing positive interim results from its U.S.-based Phase Ib clinical trial for ASC30, a small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study focused on evaluating three different formulations of ASC30 delivered via subcutaneous injection among patients with obesity, identified by a body mass index (BMI) of 30-40 kg/m².

Key Findings

One formulation from the study demonstrated a remarkable 36-day half-life after just a single subcutaneous injection. This extensive half-life supports the possibility for monthly or even less frequent administration, significantly transforming treatment options for patients struggling with obesity. Given that traditional treatments often require weekly administration, this new development could drastically reduce the burden on patients, potentially saving up to 75% of the required devices and cartridges needed for those treatments.

In total, eight participants in each cohort received one formulation of the ASC30 injection, while two received a placebo. The trial's primary goal was to test the half-life of these formulations, but the results also suggested a generally well-tolerated safety profile, with no serious adverse events reported. Most adverse events observed were mild and largely gastrointestinal-related.

Future Implications for ASC30

Dr. Jinzi Jason Wu, the Founder and CEO of Ascletis, expressed his enthusiasm about the extensive half-life of ASC30 and its implications on the obesity market. He stated that ASC30's potential dual administration options—once-daily orally and once-monthly via injection—could greatly benefit patient adherence and overall convenience, addressing a pressing medical need in obesity treatment.

This GLP-1R biased small molecule agent is currently advancing towards further clinical trials to confirm its clinical efficacy at doses exceeding 100 mg. Previous studies on an oral tablet formulation of ASC30 had already indicated a best-in-class weight loss of 6.3% after just four weeks of treatment, suggesting that ASC30 could position itself strongly in the obesity treatment arena if it achieves regulatory approval.

The Significance of Ascletis Pharma

Ascletis Pharma, recognized as a pioneering biotechnology company, is committed to developing innovative solutions to address metabolic diseases. The company not only focuses on research and development but also covers the entire value chain, from drug discovery to manufacturing. Their unique pipeline showcases multiple clinical-stage candidates tailored to fulfill global healthcare needs.

The latest findings regarding ASC30 are another milestone in Ascletis's ongoing mission to reshape the landscape of obesity treatments, which continues to grow in importance as obesity rates increase globally. With a promising safety profile and the potential for administration convenience, ASC30 may soon become a key player in therapeutic options for obesity.

For more information on Ascletis Pharma and their research endeavors, visit their official website at www.ascletis.com.

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