Rani Therapeutics Partners with ProGen on Oral Obesity Treatment

Rani Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., a company specializing in oral delivery systems for biologics and drugs, has entered into a definitive agreement with South Korean biotech firm ProGen Co., Ltd. This collaboration aims to co-develop and commercialize RT-114, an innovative oral capsule designed to treat obesity. RT-114 combines ProGen’s PG-102, a dual agonist for GLP-1 and GLP-2, with Rani’s proprietary RaniPill® capsule technology. The partnership is structured to equally share the costs and revenues associated with the development and commercialization efforts.

The RT-114 program brings together Rani’s expertise in creating oral delivery mechanisms for biologic substances and ProGen’s advanced fusion protein technology. PG-102, noted for its long half-life, is designed to enhance glycemic control and improve body composition, making it a promising candidate for weekly oral dosing. This dual agonist has shown potential in preclinical studies to deliver similar weight loss results as other leading medications but with improved patient compliance due to its unique mode of action.

Rani’s Chief Executive Officer, Talat Imran, emphasized the significance of this partnership in providing a convenient alternative to subcutaneous injections for treating chronic conditions like obesity. Imran highlighted the potential of RT-114 to improve patient adherence to treatment regimens, which could lead to better therapeutic outcomes.

From ProGen’s perspective, CEO Dr. Jong-Gyun Kim noted that this collaboration leverages Rani’s prowess in oral biologics delivery and ProGen’s extensive experience in Fc-fusion protein development. The goal is to create a first-in-class oral therapy for obesity that could set a new standard in the field.

According to the terms of the agreement, Rani and ProGen will share the responsibilities and costs associated with the global development and commercialization of RT-114. Rani will lead the efforts in the United States, Europe, Canada, and Australia, while ProGen will oversee activities in other regions. Each company retains some sublicensing rights within their respective territories. Rani is set to lead the initial preclinical and clinical development phases, with Phase 1 trials expected to begin in 2025. Notably, this agreement does not involve any upfront financial exchanges between the two companies.

Rani Therapeutics is known for its RaniPill® capsule, a groundbreaking technology that aims to replace traditional subcutaneous injections with oral doses. The RaniPill® platform has demonstrated high bioavailability in delivering antibodies, peptides, and large proteins, and has completed several Phase 1 clinical trials. ProGen’s preclinical studies have shown that PG-102 offers superior glycemic control and weight loss compared to existing treatments like semaglutide and tirzepatide.

ProGen recently shared Phase 1 trial results for PG-102 at the 2024 American Diabetes Association conference. The results indicated that PG-102 had a favorable safety profile with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to other treatments. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data suggest that RT-114 could be administered on a weekly or even monthly basis, potentially enhancing patient compliance.

In summary, the collaboration between Rani Therapeutics and ProGen Co., Ltd. aims to bring forth a pioneering oral treatment for obesity, leveraging the strengths of both companies. The RT-114 program holds the promise of transforming the way obesity is treated, making it easier for patients to adhere to their medication regimens and achieve significant health improvements.