Palatin to Present Positive Phase 2b Data for Melanocortin Agonist in Diabetic Kidney Disease at the National Kidney Foundation Spring Meeting

Core Insights - Palatin Technologies, Inc. announced positive results from the Phase 2b BREAKOUT study, which evaluated the efficacy of bremelanotide in patients with Type 2 diabetic nephropathy [2][3] - The study demonstrated significant clinical improvements, indicating the potential of melanocortin agonists in treating various diseases [2][6] Company Overview - Palatin Technologies is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing first-in-class medicines that modulate the melanocortin receptor system [11] - The company aims to address significant unmet medical needs and has a strategy to form marketing collaborations to maximize commercial potential [11] Study Details - The BREAKOUT study enrolled 16 patients with confirmed Type 2 diabetic nephropathy, with 8 patients completing a six-month treatment regimen [2][6] - Patients received bremelanotide subcutaneously twice daily alongside their maximum tolerated dose of RAAS inhibition therapy [2] Key Findings - 71% of patients achieved a greater than 30% reduction in urine protein to creatinine ratio (UP/Cr), a key indicator of kidney damage [6][7] - 71% demonstrated improved or stabilized estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), indicating preserved kidney function [6][7] - 37.5% had increased urinary vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels, suggesting better blood vessel support in the kidneys [6][7] - 36% had reduced urinary synaptopodin losses, indicating healthier kidney cells and structure [6][7] Melanocortin Receptor System - The melanocortin receptor system consists of five receptors that influence inflammation, immune responses, metabolism, and other physiological functions [4][10] - Activation of these receptors can have significant pharmacological effects, particularly in maintaining podocyte viability, which is crucial for kidney function [9][10] Diabetic Nephropathy Context - Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in developed countries, affecting approximately 30 million patients in the U.S. [6][8] - Despite existing therapies, a significant portion of patients with Type 2 diabetic nephropathy progress to end-stage renal disease, highlighting the need for new treatment options [8]