9 Meters Biopharma, Inc. (NASDAQ: NMTR) has a history of bringing novel therapeutics to the market. The entity, which owns all global rights to its products, quickly advances drug candidates for short bowel syndrome and celiac disease. The rare and unmet needs-focused GI company has more than 150 patents worldwide. Its latest candidate, a Phase 2 trial for short bowel syndrome (SBS), is vurolenatide, a proprietary long-acting GLP-1 agonist.
The clinical-stage company has made a new move; the acquisition of global development rights of Obesity (LOB-0136). The proprietary and highly specific humanized monoclonal antibody is now known as NM-136 and targets glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). The purchase agreement dictates that 9 Meters will acquire Lobesity’s related assets for a combination of 40% cash and 60% equity. In addition, the arrangement will attract a $5 million upfront payment.
GIP, a hormone found in the upper small intestine, increases its concentration through overeating. The result is usually higher glucose absorption and more excellent insulin release. What follows is an increased glucose uptake into fat cells. More often than not, this contributes to obesity and obesity-related disorders such as Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS).
The Advancement of NM-136. Will it Reduce Nutrient Absorption from the Intestines?
PWS reportedly occurs in one out of every 20,000 births. Hence, one of the most common genetic causes of life-threatening childhood obesity. However, the CEO of 9 Meters, John Temperato, says the advancement of NM-136 is a step forward in helping victims of this life-threatening disease. Anticipation has it that the anti-GIP mAb is likely to decrease nutrient absorption from the intestine. It is also known to decrease weight and abdominal fat.
Applauding the strategic partnership, the CEO of Obesity, Daniel Lewis, remarked, “We’re excited to see our science continue through…9 Meters team. Their expertise in the digestive disease space … leaves our team confident that one day patients with PWS may benefit from this novel drug….”
Meanwhile, 9 Meters says it will take into 2023 IND-enabling studies and clinical proof-of-concept study in PWS.
