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MetaVia's DA-1726 Clinical Trial Results: A Breakthrough in Obesity Treatment

MetaVia Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has announced compelling data from the phase 1 clinical trial of its novel anti-obesity drug, DA-1726. This product, a dual agonist targeting both glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucagon receptors, aims to address the persistent challenge of obesity with an innovative therapeutic approach.

The trial, specifically a four-week multiple ascending dose (MAD) study, included 36 healthy adults with a body mass index (BMI) ranging from 30 to 45 kg/m². Participants received varying doses of DA-1726, with remarkable findings reported at the 32 mg dose level. Over the course of 26 days, the cohort showcased an impressive maximum weight loss of up to 6.3% and an average weight reduction of 4.3% (p=0.0005). These statistics indicate a significant potential for DA-1726 to emerge as a leading obesity management solution.

Weight Loss and Safety Profile

In assessing the overall safety of DA-1726, the results were encouraging. Participants displayed only mild gastrointestinal (GI) side effects, which normalized swiftly within a day, highlighting a favorable tolerability profile compared to existing weight loss drugs. Notably, there were no severe adverse effects or treatment discontinuations directly attributed to DA-1726, marking a positive contrast to the typical experiences with current GLP-1 agonists.

Hyung Heon Kim, the CEO of MetaVia, emphasized the unique attributes of DA-1726, especially stressing its dual mechanism of action which allows it to lower glucose levels while simultaneously promoting weight loss. Notably, by day 26, participants also exhibited significant reductions in waist circumference averages, with 3.9 inches being the maximum noted.

Mechanism of Action

The dual-action framework of DA-1726 incorporates both GLP-1 receptor agonism and glucagon receptor agonism. Previous research suggests that this combination can help achieve sustainable weight loss by mitigating appetite and boosting energy expenditure simultaneously. Early findings from the trial indicated that early satiety was experienced by 83% of participants within this group receiving the highest dose, a promising signal for the drug’s efficacy in longer studies.

As DA-1726 progresses into its next phases of study, including potentially examining its effects on patients who discontinued other treatments like Wegovy®, there is growing anticipation regarding its impact on both weight loss and the management of Type 2 diabetes. The trial’s design not only aims to explore DA-1726's safety and tolerability but also its effectiveness in addressing comorbidities typically associated with obesity.

Future Directions for MetaVia

MetaVia is committed to exploring all potential dimensions of DA-1726's efficacy, aiming to make it accessible to a broad spectrum of obese patients, particularly those with other health issues. Moreover, the recent findings have laid the groundwork for the company to embark on additional cohorts exploring higher dosages to ascertain the maximum tolerated dose.

In conclusion, MetaVia's promising trial results place DA-1726 in a favorable light within the competitive landscape of obesity treatments. Advancements made during this phase allow for a robust foundation as the company navigates subsequent research phases while aiming to redefine obesity management.