Marea Debuts with $190M to Address Cardiometabolic Diseases through ANGPTL4 Targeting

Marea Therapeutics has officially launched with a substantial $190 million in funding to develop treatments aimed at genetically validated cardiometabolic diseases. The company, which was incubated by Third Rock Ventures, is supported by notable investors such as Sofinnova Investments, Forbion, Perceptive Xontogeny Venture Fund, and venBio.

The startup's primary focus is on its lead drug candidate, MAR001, which is currently in Phase II clinical development. This treatment targets the lipid and metabolic drivers that contribute to cardiovascular events in high-risk patients. Specifically, MAR001 inhibits ANGPTL4, an action that enhances adipose tissue lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity. This results in lowered remnant cholesterol levels, improved metabolic function, and a reduction in cardiovascular events.

Marea has reported promising results from its Phase I trials for MAR001. The trials indicated that a single dose of the drug significantly reduced remnant cholesterol levels and improved key metabolic biomarkers. Marea is now advancing MAR001 through mid-stage development aimed at adults with metabolic dysfunction.

Maha Katabi, a general partner at Sofinnova, highlighted the significance of these initial findings. "In a Phase I trial, a single dose of MAR001 significantly lowered remnant cholesterol levels and improved metabolic biomarkers," Katabi stated, underscoring the potential impact of the drug on cardiometabolic health.

As Marea Therapeutics continues its development efforts, the company is poised to make significant contributions to the treatment of cardiometabolic diseases, leveraging the substantial financial backing and expertise of its high-profile investors.