MetaVia's Dual Agonist Shows Promise in Obesity Treatment, Joining Competitive Field

MetaVia, a biotechnology company formerly known as NeuroBo Pharmaceuticals, has reported encouraging results from a phase 1 trial of its dual agonist DA-1726, designed to target both GLP-1 and glucagon receptors for obesity treatment. The study, which involved adults with obesity who were otherwise healthy, demonstrated an average weight loss of 9.1% after eight weeks of treatment with a 48-mg non-titrated dose.

Clinical Trial Results and Technical Details

The extended dosing cohort of the phase 1 trial revealed progressive weight loss, increasing from 6.1% on Day 26 to 9.1% by Day 54. Participants also experienced a reduction in waist circumference, expanding from 5.8 cm on Day 26 to 9.8 cm on Day 54. Notably, the study reported a 23.7% reduction in liver stiffness, measured using a non-invasive ultrasound technique, suggesting potential benefits for patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).

DA-1726's unique three-to-one ratio of GLP-1 to glucagon agonism is positioned as a key differentiator by MetaVia. CEO Hyung Heon Kim emphasized this balance as crucial for treating individuals with diabetes, given that glucagon agonists tend to raise glucose levels. The trial data supported this approach, showing a 12.3 mg/dL improvement in fasted glucose from a baseline of 105.3 mg/dL by Day 54.

Competitive Landscape and Market Positioning

MetaVia's entry into the obesity treatment market places it in direct competition with more advanced candidates employing similar mechanisms. Altimmune's pemvidutide, another GLP-1/glucagon dual receptor agonist, is poised to enter phase 3 trials for MASH. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly has already shared phase 3 data on retatrutide, a triple agonist targeting GLP-1, glucagon, and GIP receptors.

The company is banking on DA-1726's potential for rapid dose titration as a competitive advantage. Current leading treatments like semaglutide and tirzepatide require up to six months to reach optimal dosing. MetaVia plans to explore 16-week studies with faster titration schedules, including a single-step titration to 48 mg and a two-step regimen up to 64 mg.

Despite the promising data, MetaVia faces financial challenges. With a market cap of just $20 million and $14.3 million in cash as of September, the company's funding is projected to last only into 2026. CEO Kim has expressed openness to partnering or licensing deals to ensure continued development of their programs.