Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the development of ASC35, a novel GLP-1/GIP receptor dual agonist by the company, which is expected to enhance patient compliance and reduce production costs due to its long-acting formulation and improved pharmacokinetics [4][5]. Group 1: Drug Development and Characteristics - ASC35 is a monthly subcutaneous injection candidate for obesity treatment, with an IND application planned for submission to the FDA in 2026 [4]. - The drug shows approximately 4 times higher activity on GLP-1R and GIPR compared to Tirzepatide in vitro [4]. - ASC35 has a longer half-life and higher bioavailability, requiring only 1 milliliter or less for administration, which supports monthly dosing [4]. Group 2: Pharmacokinetics and Efficacy - In non-human primate studies, ASC35's average half-life is about 14 days, which is 6 times longer than that of Tirzepatide [5]. - Drug exposure (measured by AUC) shows ASC35 has approximately 80% higher exposure via intravenous injection and 70% higher via subcutaneous injection compared to Tirzepatide [5]. - The estimated half-life of ASC35 in humans could reach 30 days or longer, supporting its monthly dosing feasibility [5]. Group 3: Weight Loss Efficacy - In a diet-induced obesity mouse model, ASC35 led to a weight reduction of 33.6% at equimolar doses, compared to 19.6% for Tirzepatide, representing a 71% relative efficacy improvement [7]. - The higher weight loss efficiency per milligram of peptide is advantageous for large-scale production [7]. Group 4: Combination Therapy Potential - The company plans to explore ASC35 as both a monotherapy and in combination with other candidates for treating various cardiometabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes [8]. - Potential combination therapies include ASC36, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, and ASC47, a THRβ agonist, both designed for monthly subcutaneous administration [8]. - The company utilizes its AISBDD and ULAP technology platforms to design and optimize long-acting peptide drugs, aiming to improve clinical efficacy by controlling subcutaneous release rates [8].