A San Diego biotech startup focused on treating metabolic and endocrine disorders has picked up a portfolio of drug candidates and a $2.5 million investment from Ligand Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:LGND).
Viking Therapeutics said it’s licensed five programs from Ligand, including a Phase 2 program aimed at type 2 diabetes and another at wasting syndrome in cancer.
“Each of the licensed programs has what we believe to be first-in-class or best-in-class characteristics and a differentiated therapeutic profile,” said Brian Lian, president and CEO, in a statement.
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Its lead candidate is an oral inhibitor of the enzyme FBPase, which plays an important role in how the body synthesizes glucose. According to Viking, the small-molecule drug has demonstrated safety and tolerability in early clinical trials and is headed for a Phase 2b trial in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.
Shortly behind is a potential cancer cachexia treatment. The oral, non-steroid drug has a tissue-selective mechanism that’s designed to deliver the therapeutic benefits of testosterone with improved safety and tolerability, according to Viking, which is planning a Phase 2 proof-of-concept clinical trial.
Three preclinical programs were also included in the deal: two targeting lipid disorders and another oral candidate for anemia.
Under the terms of the deal, Viking is responsible for all development activities related to the drugs. The 2-year-old company will also get a $2.5 million investment from Ligand to cover operating expenses.
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[Image credit: Viking Therapeutics]
