Biophytis SA announced it has received Investigational New Drug (IND) approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its phase 2 OBA clinical study evaluating BIO101 (20-hydroxyecdysone) in obesity. The clinical-stage biotechnology company specializes in developing therapeutics for age-related diseases and sees this approval as a crucial step toward addressing muscle preservation in obesity treatment.
Study Design and Objectives
The phase 2 OBA study's primary objective focuses on measuring improvement in muscle strength in the lower limbs, assessed through knee extension testing. Secondary endpoints will analyze mobility using the 6-minute walk test and evaluate body composition changes, specifically assessing fat and lean mass distribution.
Marc-André Cornier, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Unit at the Medical University of South Carolina, will serve as the principal investigator. Cornier, who is also President-elect of the American Obesity Society, brings significant expertise to this world-renowned medical research effort.
Addressing GLP-1 Therapy Limitations
The study addresses a critical gap in current obesity treatment approaches. Professor Cornier emphasized the importance of investigating therapies designed to reduce muscle mass loss and resulting weakness associated with incretin-based treatments. "It is critical for us to study the safety and efficacy of new therapies designed to reduce the risk of muscle mass loss and resulting muscle weakness with functional consequences that may be associated with incretin-based therapies," Cornier stated.
The research also explores potential additional weight loss benefits beyond what GLP-1 receptor agonists currently provide. This dual approach could position BIO101 as a complementary therapy to preserve muscle function while enhancing weight reduction outcomes.
Market Opportunity and Timeline
The multicenter study is scheduled to begin mid-2024 in the United States, with potential expansion to European markets. Preliminary efficacy results for BIO101 are expected in 2025, though Biophytis continues seeking funding and partnerships to complete the full study program.
Stanislas Veillet, CEO of Biophytis, highlighted the significant market opportunity, noting that the obesity treatment market was valued at $6 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $100 billion by 2030, representing an average annual growth rate of 42%.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Outlook
The FDA approval has already strengthened Biophytis' partnership with Blanver in Latin America and positions the company to attract additional pharmaceutical partners globally. Veillet expressed confidence that "BIO101 could become a reference treatment for preserving muscle mass, strength and function in obese patients treated with GLP-1 RAs."
The company views this development as enabling rapid progress in obesity indication while addressing a major health issue across multiple global regions where obesity represents a significant medical challenge.
