Arrowhead’s Gene-Silencing Drugs Reduce Visceral and Liver Fat
Recent findings from Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals indicate promising advancements in gene-silencing therapies aimed at obesity management. The company shared that its candidate drug, ARO-INHBE, has demonstrated significant weight and fat loss in individuals living with obesity.
Study Overview
This research is part of an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical trial. During this study, participants received two doses of ARO-INHBE, administered one month apart. The study combined this treatment with Eli Lilly’s Zepbound.
Patient Outcomes
- Participants experienced an average weight loss of 9.4% over 16 weeks.
- Those using Zepbound alone achieved a 4.8% weight loss.
These results are noteworthy, especially considering the participants suffered from obesity and diabetes. Typically, individuals with diabetes show less weight reduction with conventional treatments.
Fat Loss Statistics
The combination treatment also significantly impacted fat levels:
- Visceral fat loss: 23%
- Total fat loss: 15%
- Liver fat loss: 77%
Excess liver fat poses risks of inflammation and scarring, making these findings critical in addressing health complications linked to obesity.
Comparative Results
In contrast, patients solely receiving Zepbound reported:
- 7% visceral fat loss
- 5% total fat loss
- 20% liver fat reduction
As Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals continues its research, these early results may enhance competition in the biotech industry for developing effective and prolonged weight loss solutions.
