Zealand presents new data on two of its novel preclinical peptide therapeutics; dual acting GLP-1-GIP and GLP-1-gastrin receptor agonists, both representing potential new strategies for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and obesity

COPENHAGEN, Denmark I June 6, 2015 I Zealand Pharma A/S (“Zealand”) (Nasdaq Copenhagen: ZEAL) today informs that new data will be presented on two novel peptide therapeutics from the company’s preclinical pipeline at the upcoming 75th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association (ADA), taking place 5 – 9 June 2015 in Boston.

Keld Fosgerau, acting SVP for Research for Zealand, commented: “We are pleased to have been given the opportunity to present two of our novel dual-acting peptide therapeutics from our preclinical pipeline at ADA. All three presentations are valuable examples of Zealand’s capabilities in the design and development of medicines representing new approaches to disease management.”

Scientists from Zealand will present data on two of the company’s novel and promising preclinical peptide therapeutics, ZP-DI-70 and ZP3022, representing co-activation of GLP-1 and GIP receptors and of GLP-1 and gastrin, respectively. The company will also outline new findings which demonstrate the suitability of the co-activation of GLP-1 and GIP receptors:

“Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of GLP-1-GIP receptor dual agonist peptides: from once-daily to once-weekly” – Abstract # 2086-P – POSTER PRESENTATION

When:           Presented on Saturday, June 6, 2015 11:30 AM Eastern

Presenter:     Maria A. Deryabina, Scientist, Zealand, Denmark

Location:       Board 2086

Introduction and conclusion

This presentation will outline new findings underscoring the suitability of the co-activation of GLP-1 and GIP receptors as a promising new strategy for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and obesity. The presented pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic results demonstrate the possibility of prolonging the activity of GLP1-GIP dual agonists, which builds on existing evidence from animal studies which suggests that the anti-obesity efficacy of GLP-1 can be enhanced by co-administration with the incretin hormone GIP.

“An optimized novel GLP-1-GIP receptor dual agonist with potent effects on body weight and glucose control in mice has the potential for once-weekly administration in humans.” – Abstract # 2061-P – POSTER PRESENTATION

When:           Presented on Saturday, June 6, 2015 11:30 AM Eastern

Presenter:     Carsten B. Knudsen, Scientist, Zealand, Denmark

Location:       Board 2061

Introduction and conclusion

The data to be presented here suggest ZP-DI-70, a novel, potent and selective GLP-1-GIP receptor dual agonist, as a promising candidate for the treatment of T2D with superior body weight lowering effect compared to existing therapies. The in vivo profile of the compound further suggests that ZP-DI-70 could be used as a convenient once-weekly treatment.

ZP-DI-70 has demonstrated promising effects on glucose control and body weight reduction in preclinical mouse models. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic evaluation in mice and monkeys indicate the potential for convenient once-weekly dosing in humans for improved treatment compliance.

“Effect of GLP-1-Gastrin Dual Agonist ZP3022 on Pancreas Gene Expression in ZDF Rats”, Abstract # 2085-P – POSTER PRESENTATION

When:           Presented on Saturday, June 6, 2015 11:30 AM Eastern

Presenter:     Jolanta Skarbaliene, Scientist, Zealand, Denmark

Location:       Board 2085

Introduction and conclusion

Zealand’s GLP-1-gastrin dual agonist ZP3022 has been shown to increase β cell mass and improve glycemic control in db/db mice and Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) rats. Here we investigated alteration in pancreas gene expression following treatment with ZP3022 in ZDF rats.

We conclude that ZP3022 produces a different gene expression response compared to exendin-4 given alone or in combination with gastrin17 and may have therapeutic potential in the prevention/delay of β cell dysfunction.

About Zealand Pharma

Zealand Pharma A/S (“Zealand”) (Nasdaq Copenhagen: ZEAL) is a biotechnology company based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Zealand has leading expertise in the discovery, design and development of novel peptide medicines and possesses in-house competences in clinical trial design and management with a therapeutic focus on metabolic diseases and acute care indications. The company is advancing a proprietary pipeline of novel medicines alongside a partnered product and development portfolio.

Zealand’s first invented medicine, lixisenatide, a once-daily prandial GLP-1 agonist for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, is marketed globally (ex-US) as Lyxumia® and is in Phase III development as a single-injection combination with Lantus® (LixiLan), both under a global license agreement with Sanofi. US regulatory filing for Lyxumia® is planned for Q3 2015 and filing for LixiLan is planned for Q4 2015 in the US and Q1 2016 in Europe.

Zealand’s proprietary pipeline includes danegaptide (prevention of Ischemic Reperfusion Injury) and two stable glucagon products, ZP4207 (one for treatment of severe hypoglycemia and the other for mild to moderate hypoglycemia) as well as several preclinical peptide therapeutics. Partnering represents an important component of strategy to leverage in-house expertise, share development risk in large clinical trials, provide funding and commercialize the company’s products. Zealand currently has global license agreements and partnerships with Sanofi, Helsinn Healthcare and Boehringer Ingelheim.

SOURCE: Zealand Pharma