Cytoki's IL-22 Analogue Promising for Obesity and Diabetes

Cytoki Pharma shared encouraging early data for its experimental drug CK-0045, a lipidated IL-22 analogue, from a Phase I study involving 76 healthy participants and those with obesity. This drug demonstrated favorable outcomes on important cardiometabolic parameters, indicating potential for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes either alone or in combination with other treatments. Rasmus Jørgensen, the CEO of Cytoki, expressed optimism about CK-0045’s prospects, noting the data's adequacy to support its progression into mid-stage trials slated for the latter half of the year.

CK-0045 is an analogue of the non-immunomodulatory cytokine IL-22, designed to selectively target epithelial cells in the gut and liver. The biotech company underscores the drug’s unique mechanism of action, which mimics the natural effects of IL-22 and could be beneficial in addressing various metabolic and inflammatory conditions. Previous preclinical studies in mice demonstrated significant weight loss and enhanced glucose regulation.

The Phase I study confirmed that CK-0045 effectively engaged its targets, as evidenced by liver and gut biomarkers. Pharmacokinetic data supported the practicality of once-weekly subcutaneous dosing. Additionally, reductions in body mass and improvements in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, insulin levels, and insulin resistance were recorded, particularly in participants with diminished insulin sensitivity. The safety profile was favorable, with the drug being well-tolerated and no major gastrointestinal side effects observed.

Cytoki Pharma was established in 2019 by Rasmus Jørgensen, who previously led research at Novo Nordisk. CK-0045, licensed from Novo, is positioned as the company’s primary focus.