Biolexis enters GLP-1 race with small molecule that reduced obese mice weight

A new player has entered the competitive arena of oral GLP-1 weight loss drugs. Biolexis Therapeutics has demonstrated promising results with its small molecule, BLX-7006, which reduced the weight of obese mice by 15% over a 28-day period. "We are thrilled with the positive outcomes from our preclinical studies," stated Biolexis Chief Scientific Officer Hariprasad Vankayalapati, Ph.D., in a press release dated September 12. The company aims to develop a groundbreaking weight loss therapy that rivals the efficacy of injectable treatments but offers the added convenience of an oral form.

Biolexis is based in Levi, Utah, nestled within the thriving tech hub known as the Silicon Slopes. The company was established in November 2021 by Vankayalapati and David Bearss, Ph.D., both affiliated with the University of Utah. Looking ahead, Biolexis plans to conduct Investigational New Drug (IND) enabling studies and initiate human clinical trials early next year, according to Chief Business Officer Keith Marmer.

GLP-1 agonists, such as BLX-7006, function by mimicking the glucagon-like peptide-1 and attaching to its receptors. This action stimulates insulin production, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, it slows stomach emptying and reduces hunger, contributing to both diabetes management and weight loss.

The market for oral GLP-1 drugs is becoming increasingly competitive. Biolexis joins numerous biotech and pharmaceutical companies striving to transform injectable GLP-1 weight loss drugs into more user-friendly pill forms. For instance, Novo Nordisk's Rybelsus is currently approved for type 2 diabetes but not for weight loss. Novo Nordisk has also been working on an oral GLP-1 agonist intended to match its injectable weight loss drug, Wegovy. In March, the company reported that its oral candidate, amycretin, led to a 13.1% weight reduction after 12 weeks in a phase 1 trial.

Eli Lilly, the creator of Zepbound (tirzepatide), has also made strides in this area. The company has been testing a once-daily pill called orforglipron, which demonstrated weight loss ranging from 9% to 15% over a 36-week period, depending on the dosage. Other pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer and Roche are also in the race, with both companies currently progressing through human trials.

GLP-1 drugs have shown potential beyond weight loss and diabetes management. For example, a recent study suggested that an older GLP-1 drug called liraglutide might offer protective benefits against Alzheimer's disease.

In summary, Biolexis Therapeutics is the latest entrant in the burgeoning field of oral GLP-1 weight loss drugs. With preclinical studies showing a significant reduction in weight in obese mice, the company is preparing to advance to human clinical trials. As Biolexis joins the fray, the competition to develop effective and convenient oral GLP-1 therapies continues to intensify, with several major pharmaceutical companies also making significant strides in this promising area of medical research.