Metsera Therapeutics, a biotech company set to be acquired by Pfizer, has announced positive results from two Phase II trials for its GLP-1 receptor agonist, MSE-1018. The trials evaluated the efficacy and safety of MSE-1018 in patients with type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
In the first trial, MSE-1018 demonstrated significant improvements in glycemic control, with patients achieving a mean reduction in HbA1c of 2.1% from baseline. The treatment also resulted in significant weight!oss, with a mean reduction of 6.3% from baseline. The most common adverse events were gastrointestinal in nature, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The second trial evaluated the efficacy of MSE-1018 in patients with NASH, a condition characterized by inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver. MSE-1018 showed significant improvements in liver fat reduction, with a mean reduction of 48.1% from baseline. Additionally, the treatment resulted in significant improvements in liver inflammation and fibrosis.
The Phase II results are a significant milestone for Metsera, which is set to be acquired by Pfizer in a deal worth up to $636 million. Pfizer has stated that it intends to continue developing MSE-1018, with plans to initiate Phase III trials in the near future.
The GLP-1 receptor agonist market is highly competitive, with several established players, including Novo Nordisk’s Victoza and Eli Lilly’s Trulicity. However, Metsera’s MSE-1018 has shown promising results, with a potential best-in-class profile. The treatment has demonstrated a favorable efficacy and safety profile, with significant improvements in glycemic control, weight loss, and liver fat reduction.
Pfizer’s acquisition of Metsera is part of its strategy to expand its portfolio of innovative medicines. The company has stated that it believes MSE-1018 has the potential to be a leading treatment for type 2 diabetes and NASH, and is committed to bringing the treatment to market.
Overall, the positive Phase II results for MSE-1018 are a significant development for Metsera and Pfizer. With a potential best-in-class profile and a large unmet need in the type 2 diabetes and NASH markets, MSE-1018 has the potential to be a major commercial success. Pfizer’s acquisition of Metsera and commitment to developing MSE-1018 demonstrate the company’s confidence in the treatment’s potential and its willingness to invest in innovative medicines.