iBio Expands Cardiometabolic and Obesity Pipeline through Licensing of First-in-Class Antibody Targeting Activin E from AstralBio

Core Insights - Bio, Inc. has entered a licensing agreement with AstralBio Inc. for a first-in-class antibody targeting Activin E, which is expected to induce fat-selective weight loss and protect against obesity and cardiometabolic diseases [1][2][4] - The antibody was developed using iBio's proprietary Machine-Learning Antibody Engine and has shown promising results in preclinical studies, including strong binding and inhibition of Activin E signaling [1][3] Company Developments - The licensed antibody is believed to be the first functional inhibitor of Activin E, a target that regulates energy balance and fat distribution, potentially reversing obesity and preventing diabetes [2][4] - iBio plans to present additional preclinical data at the International BMP Conference in Philadelphia from May 2–6 [3][4] Financial Aspects - AstralBio has provided iBio with a $750,000 credit towards the exclusive license of the Activin E antibody, with potential milestone payments totaling up to $28 million for development and commercialization [4] - iBio is responsible for all research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization activities related to the licensed product [4] Technology and Innovation - iBio utilized advanced epitope engineering technology to create engineered epitopes of the Activin E protein, leading to a molecule that blocks its signaling across multiple in vitro models [3] - The antibody demonstrated fat-selective weight loss in a rodent model and showed synergistic effects when combined with a GLP-1 receptor agonist [3] Strategic Vision - The licensing agreement reflects iBio's confidence in Activin E as a therapeutic target and represents a strategic expansion of its pipeline in cardiometabolic diseases and obesity [4] - The company aims to transform drug discovery and accelerate development timelines through its innovative drug discovery platforms [5]