7TM's obesity drug performs well in early clinical trials

Danish biotechnology company 7TM Pharma has announced positive results from two studies of its candidate obesity treatment TM30339. The drug, which was discovered by the firm's in-house R&D team, targets the Y4 receptor involved in the systhesis of polypeptide hormones involved in satiety.

The first data reported comes from a Phase Ia double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled single ascending-dose evaluation, which demonstrated the safety and tolerability of TM30339. The results also showed that the drug achieved substantial and persistent plasma concentrations. The second study, a Phase Ib assessment, confirmed the agent's safety and tolerability when administered over a 14-day period.

Christian Elling, the firm's director of clinical development, said that the early data were encouraging and support the initiation of Phase II development.