Uncategorized
STAT+: Researchers behind GLP-1 obesity drugs advance new approach: Drop GLP-1 as a target
The scientists whose work spurred the development of powerful obesity drugs like Eli Lilly’s Zepbound are now raising a provocative hypothesis: Perhaps targeting the GLP-1 hormone is actually not necessary to achieve effective weight loss.
A group of researchers led by Richard DiMarchi and Matthias Tschöp has created an experimental drug that activates receptors of the GIP and glucagon hormones. They propose — based on rodent and monkey studies — that this kind of molecule, when administered at high enough doses, may result in weight loss comparable to the weight loss seen with drugs that include GLP-1 as a target, and without the tolerability issues like nausea and vomiting that often come with the approved treatments, according to a peer-reviewed draft paper published this week.
The research, funded by a biotech called BlueWater Biosciences, would still need to be confirmed in humans; oftentimes results seen in animals don’t translate in the clinic. But the proposed approach, outlined in the journal Molecular Metabolism by some of the most well-known scientists in the field, is likely to stir controversy, as it challenges a central notion underpinning not just the development of approved obesity products but also next-generation versions.
The scientists whose work spurred the development of powerful obesity drugs like Eli Lilly’s Zepbound are now raising a provocative hypothesis: Perhaps targeting the GLP-1 hormone is actually not necessary to achieve effective weight loss.
A group of researchers led by Richard DiMarchi and Matthias Tschöp has created an experimental drug that activates receptors of the GIP and glucagon hormones. They propose — based on rodent and monkey studies — that this kind of molecule, when administered at high enough doses, may result in weight loss comparable to the weight loss seen with drugs that include GLP-1 as a target, and without the tolerability issues like nausea and vomiting that often come with the approved treatments, according to a peer-reviewed draft paper published this week.
The research, funded by a biotech called BlueWater Biosciences, would still need to be confirmed in humans; oftentimes results seen in animals don’t translate in the clinic. But the proposed approach, outlined in the journal Molecular Metabolism by some of the most well-known scientists in the field, is likely to stir controversy, as it challenges a central notion underpinning not just the development of approved obesity products but also next-generation versions.
Uncategorized
STAT+: Up and down the ladder: The latest comings and goings
Hired someone new and exciting? Promoted a rising star? Finally solved that hard-to-fill spot? Share the news with us, and we’ll share it with others. That’s right. Send us your changes, and we’ll find a home for them. Don’t be shy. Everyone wants to know who is coming and going.
And here is our regular feature in which we highlight a different person each week. This time around, we note that AstronauTx hired Michelle Mellion as chief medical officer. Previously, she held the same role at PepGen and EveryONE Medicines.
But all work and no play can make for a dull chief medical officer.
Hired someone new and exciting? Promoted a rising star? Finally solved that hard-to-fill spot? Share the news with us, and we’ll share it with others. That’s right. Send us your changes, and we’ll find a home for them. Don’t be shy. Everyone wants to know who is coming and going.
And here is our regular feature in which we highlight a different person each week. This time around, we note that AstronauTx hired Michelle Mellion as chief medical officer. Previously, she held the same role at PepGen and EveryONE Medicines.
But all work and no play can make for a dull chief medical officer.
Officials sanctioned Dabur India months after FDA inspectors found bird droppings and data integrity deficiencies during an inspection of the plant.
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STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re reading about a discontinued cancer drug, a Novo security breach, and more
And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda includes promenading with the official mascots, catching another round of live musical vibes here and there, and taking pride in some folks who are dear to us. We also hope to hold yet another listening party, where the rotation will likely include this, this, this, this and this. And what about you? This is a wonderful time of year to sample the many outdoor activities popping up — street fairs, festivals, and all sorts of gatherings can be sampled. If the weather fails to cooperate, though, you could curl up with a good book, sit in front of the telly to take in one or more sporting events, or plan a needed getaway. If none of this strikes your fancy, you could simply park yourself somewhere comfortable for a while and remain zen. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon. …
In a rare move, the nonprofit organization Blood Cancer United announced it was buying the remaining supplies of Luvelta, a discontinued investigational cancer drug, STAT reports. As part of the transaction, Blood Cancer United, previously known as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, also will acquire the investigational new drug designation and manage the compassionate-use program for children with a rare form of blood cancer, distributing the medication to patients at no cost while supplies last. Sutro Biopharma discontinued development in March 2025 and also eliminated a compassionate use program.
Novo Nordisk identified a security incident in which certain information, including patient data from some clinical trials, was copied externally without authorization from its internal IT systems, Reuters notes. The company said it launched a probe with the assistance of external cybersecurity experts and is in contact with the relevant authorities. The potential categories of personal data affected may include patient ID, year of birth, sex, and health or immunogenicity data among others. Novo did not provide further details, but does not believe the incident will enable any third party to identify participants in its clinical trials.
And so, another working week will soon draw to a close. Not a moment too soon, yes? This is, you may recall, our treasured signal to daydream about weekend plans. Our agenda includes promenading with the official mascots, catching another round of live musical vibes here and there, and taking pride in some folks who are dear to us. We also hope to hold yet another listening party, where the rotation will likely include this, this, this, this and this. And what about you? This is a wonderful time of year to sample the many outdoor activities popping up — street fairs, festivals, and all sorts of gatherings can be sampled. If the weather fails to cooperate, though, you could curl up with a good book, sit in front of the telly to take in one or more sporting events, or plan a needed getaway. If none of this strikes your fancy, you could simply park yourself somewhere comfortable for a while and remain zen. Well, whatever you do, have a grand time. But be safe. Enjoy, and see you soon. …
In a rare move, the nonprofit organization Blood Cancer United announced it was buying the remaining supplies of Luvelta, a discontinued investigational cancer drug, STAT reports. As part of the transaction, Blood Cancer United, previously known as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, also will acquire the investigational new drug designation and manage the compassionate-use program for children with a rare form of blood cancer, distributing the medication to patients at no cost while supplies last. Sutro Biopharma discontinued development in March 2025 and also eliminated a compassionate use program.
Novo Nordisk identified a security incident in which certain information, including patient data from some clinical trials, was copied externally without authorization from its internal IT systems, Reuters notes. The company said it launched a probe with the assistance of external cybersecurity experts and is in contact with the relevant authorities. The potential categories of personal data affected may include patient ID, year of birth, sex, and health or immunogenicity data among others. Novo did not provide further details, but does not believe the incident will enable any third party to identify participants in its clinical trials.
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STAT+: Up and down the ladder: The latest comings and goings
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Illinois’ financial crisis could bring the state to a halt
The final 6 ‘Game of Thrones’ episodes might feel like a full season
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Mod turns ‘Counter-Strike’ into a ‘Tekken’ clone with fighting chickens
Meet Superman’s grandfather in new trailer for Krypton
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