Nxera Unveils Broad Proprietary Pipeline for Obesity and Chronic Weight Management

Nxera Pharma has launched a proprietary pipeline targeting obesity and chronic weight management, led by a new oral small molecule GLP-1 agonist and six additional innovative programs targeting the GIP, Amylin, and Apelin receptors. The pipeline aims to address emerging areas of patient need, including long-term weight management, co-morbid metabolic disorders, and muscle preservation during weight loss. Nxera has established its own drug discovery efforts, separate from collaborations with Pfizer and Eli Lilly, and is confident in achieving significant progress over the mid-term, delivering clear value for shareholders and patients.

Nxera Pharma Co., Ltd. has announced the launch of a broad new pipeline focused on advancing next-generation therapies for obesity and associated metabolic disorders. The pipeline, led by a new proprietary oral small molecule GLP-1 agonist, aims to address emerging areas of patient need, including long-term weight management, co-morbid metabolic disorders, and muscle preservation during weight loss [1].

The pipeline comprises seven innovative programs, including a new oral small molecule GLP-1 agonist program and six additional programs targeting the GIP, Amylin, and Apelin receptors. This strategic focus leverages Nxera's proprietary NxWave™ GPCR-focused structure-based design platform to rapidly identify unique, highly differentiated lead molecules with novel chemistry [1].

Nxera's pipeline is designed to deliver highly effective therapies addressing critical patient needs, such as long-term weight maintenance, enhanced outcomes in cardiovascular, renal, and liver diseases, and targeted treatments for elderly, post-menopausal, and sarcopenic populations [1]. The company's focused approach is backed by an expert team with deep experience in GPCR drug discovery, positioning Nxera to be a leader in developing the next generation of best-in-class obesity and metabolic therapies.

Separately, Nxera notes that Pfizer discontinued development of its Phase 1 candidate PF-06954522, a small molecule GLP-1 agonist discovered under a strategic drug discovery collaboration with Nxera. The discontinuation was due to a portfolio decision and not because of any adverse safety findings. Nxera intends to enter discussions with Pfizer regarding potential opportunities to advance GLP-1 molecules discovered by Pfizer under the collaboration [1].

Ascletis Pharma Inc. has also completed enrollment in its U.S. Phase IIa study evaluating ASC30, a small molecule oral GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist for the treatment of obesity. The study, which enrolled 125 participants in just over one month, aims to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of two oral formulations of ASC30 in participants with obesity or overweight [2].

References:
[1] https://www.streetinsider.com/Globe+Newswire/Nxera+Launches+Broad+Proprietary+Pipeline+Targeting+Obesity+and+Chronic+Weight+Management/25152791.html
[2] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ascletis-completes-enrollment-in-us-phase-iia-study-for-its-small-molecule-oral-glp-1r-agonist-asc30-in-participants-with-obesity-or-overweight-302521917.html