Biophytis has unveiled promising new preclinical data demonstrating that its investigational drug BIO101, when combined with GLP-1 receptor agonists, effectively restores muscle strength and mobility in an animal model of obesity. The findings, presented at the 15th International Conference on Frailty and Sarcopenia Research in Toulouse, address a significant unmet need in obesity treatment.
The preclinical study conducted on diet-induced obese mice showed that a four-week combination treatment of BIO101 with a GLP-1 receptor agonist significantly improved animal mobility (endurance) and grip strength compared to untreated groups. Notably, the combination therapy compensated for muscle contractility alterations induced by GLP-1 in a twitch test performed on isolated muscle tissue.
These results are particularly significant as 96% of patients with obesity report experiencing muscle strength impairment that affects their mobility, according to data shared by the company.
Addressing Muscle Weakness in Obesity Treatment
While GLP-1 receptor agonists have revolutionized weight management, they do not specifically target the muscle weakness commonly experienced by patients with obesity. Stanislas Veillet, CEO of Biophytis, emphasized this gap in current treatment options.
"Despite the progress made with the development of GLP-1 treatments for obesity, no therapy currently exists to restore muscle strength and mobility in patients with obesity," said Veillet. "Biophytis is pioneering research to address this critical unmet medical need."
The company's approach could potentially complement the weight loss effects of GLP-1 therapies while preserving or enhancing muscle function—a combination that might significantly improve quality of life for patients with obesity.
Building on Previous Clinical Evidence
The new preclinical findings build upon earlier human clinical data. In the SARA-INT Phase 2 study on sarcopenic obesity and the Quinolia Phase 1-2 study on obesity, BIO101-treated obese patient cohorts showed improved muscle strength and mobility compared to placebo groups.
BIO101 (20-hydroxyecdysone) is Biophytis' lead drug candidate, a small molecule being developed for both muscular diseases and metabolic disorders. The company is now preparing to advance the development of BIO101 in combination with GLP-1 within its Phase 2 OBA clinical trial.
Global Health Implications
Obesity affects nearly one billion people worldwide and is associated with numerous comorbidities. The development of therapies that not only address weight management but also improve functional capacity could have significant public health implications.
The muscle-preserving properties of BIO101 could be particularly valuable as the population of patients using GLP-1 agonists continues to grow globally. By addressing both weight and mobility, the combination approach might offer a more comprehensive treatment strategy for obesity.
Next Steps in Development
Biophytis is positioned to advance its obesity program with BIO101, which is ready to enter Phase 2 clinical trials for obesity. The company is also preparing to initiate Phase 3 studies for sarcopenia, another condition characterized by age-related loss of muscle mass and function.
Headquartered in Paris with subsidiaries in Cambridge, Massachusetts and Brazil, Biophytis continues to focus on developing treatments for age-related diseases. The company's shares are listed on Euronext Growth Paris (ALBPS - FR001400OLP5) and its American Depositary Shares are traded on the OTC market (BPTSY - US 09076G401).
As the obesity treatment landscape evolves, Biophytis' approach of combining muscle strength restoration with weight management therapies represents a potentially important advancement in addressing the complex needs of patients with obesity.
