Akero Therapeutics Maintains Leading Position in MASH Treatment with Efruxifermin Advancements

Akero Therapeutics' efruxifermin (EFX) is a leading candidate in treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), following Novo Nordisk's discontinuation of zalfermin development. EFX is the most advanced FGF21 analog in development, with ongoing Phase 3 SYNCHRONY trials and anticipated significant catalysts from upcoming data readouts. Analyst Michael Ulz maintains a Buy rating and $84.00 price target.

In a significant development for the liver cirrhosis treatment landscape, Akero Therapeutics' efruxifermin (EFX) has demonstrated promising results in reversing compensated cirrhosis. The company's experimental therapy, EFX, has shown the ability to reverse compensated cirrhosis in adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a serious form of fatty liver disease. This breakthrough comes from the Phase 2b SYMMETRY clinical trial (NCT05039450), which revealed unprecedented and statistically significant results [1].

EFX, an FGF21 analog, is one of the most advanced therapies in development for MASH, a condition that often leads to liver cirrhosis. The drug has shown potential in reducing liver fibrosis in patients with MASH who have not yet developed cirrhosis, as demonstrated in the Phase 2b HARMONY trial (NCT04767529) [1].

The market for liver cirrhosis is expected to surge due to the increasing prevalence and awareness of the disease. The market size was valued at approximately USD 3,100 million in 2023 and is anticipated to grow significantly during the study period (2020-2034) [1]. The market is driven by factors such as the growing number of diagnosed cases and the launch of multiple-stage pipeline products.

Analyst Michael Ulz maintains a Buy rating and a $84.00 price target for Akero Therapeutics, indicating confidence in the company's pipeline and the potential of EFX [2]. The upcoming data readouts from the Phase 3 SYNCHRONY trials are expected to provide significant catalysts for the stock.

References:
[1] https://www.barchart.com/story/news/33887248/liver-cirrhosis-market-predicted-to-see-upsurge-through-2034-highlights-delveinsight-pfizer-glaxosmithkline-bausch-health-bristolmyers-squibb-mallinckrodt-cumberland
[2] Analyst Michael Ulz's report on Akero Therapeutics