Headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MetaVia Inc. operates as a clinical-stage biotechnology company with a core focus on discovering and commercializing novel pharmaceutical solutions for cardiometabolic disorders. Its leading investigational drug, DA-1241, a unique G-Protein-Coupled Receptor 119 agonist, is currently undergoing Phase 2a clinical trials for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). This follows the successful completion of Phase 1 trials for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and the compound holds promise for use as both a standalone therapy and in combination treatments. Another significant asset, DA-1726, an innovative oxyntomodulin analogue that functions as a dual agonist for GLP-1 and glucagon receptors, is presently in preclinical development specifically for treating obesity. MetaVia's broader therapeutic pipeline also includes ANA001, a distinct oral niclosamide formulation intended for moderate COVID-19 patients; NB-01, designed to address painful diabetic neuropathy; NB-02, targeting cognitive impairment; and Gemcabene, for the management of dyslipidemia. The company engages in strategic partnerships, notably a licensing agreement with Pfizer Inc. for the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of Gemcabene. Additionally, a joint research collaboration with Dong-A ST and ImmunoForge supports the advancement of DA-1726. The entity adopted its current name, MetaVia Inc., in November 2024, transitioning from its former identity as NeuroBo Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
MetaVia Announces Preclinical Findings Supporting Biological Rationale for DA-1726's Waist Circumference Reduction
MetaVia reported preclinical tissue distribution data showing DA-1726-derived radioactivity is slowly absorbed, broadly distributed, and retained at the highest levels in adipose (fat) tissue, with prolonged retention through the final 144-hour assessment — a profile consistent with once-weekly dosing.
CEO Hyung Heon Kim said the findings provide mechanistic support for the drug's differentiated profile, building on Phase 1 data in which the 48 mg dose produced a mean 9.8 cm reduction in waist circumference after eight weeks of treatment. Only minimal radioactivity reached the central nervous system, consistent with the limited brain penetration expected of peptide therapies.
The next catalysts are clinical: 16-week topline data from the ongoing 24-week dose-titration study is expected in Q4 2026, followed by 24-week topline results in Q1 2027.