Key Takeaways MDGL rose 10.9% as a new U.S. patent is set to protect Rezdiffra's FDA-approved dosing regimen. The patent, valid through 2044, will be listed in the FDA's Orange Book, blocking generic competition. Over 17,000 patients are already on Rezdiffra as MDGL expands clinical data to support full approval.Madrigal Pharmaceuticals (MDGL) shares soared 10.9% on Wednesday. The uptrend was observed after the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued a Notice of Allowance for a new U.S. patent related to ...

Core Viewpoint - Sagimet Biosciences Inc. is advancing its clinical-stage biopharmaceutical development, focusing on novel therapeutics for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) through a combination therapy approach involving denifanstat and resmetirom [1][2][3] Company Overview - Sagimet Biosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing fatty acid synthase (FASN) inhibitors targeting metabolic and fibrotic pathways [6][7] - The lead product candidate, denifanstat, is an oral, once-daily selective FASN inhibitor aimed at treating MASH, which has received Breakthrough Therapy designation from the FDA for non-cirrhotic MASH with moderate to advanced liver fibrosis [7] Upcoming Event - A virtual key opinion leader (KOL) event is scheduled for May 29, 2025, featuring Dr. Rohit Loomba, who will discuss the potential of combining denifanstat with resmetirom for treating advanced MASH [1][2] - The event will include an overview of the planned Phase 1 pharmacokinetic clinical trial for the combination therapy and a live Q&A session [3][4] Clinical Development - The development program builds on positive results from the Phase 2b FASCINATE-2 clinical trial of denifanstat in MASH F2-F3 patients, particularly those at the advanced F3 stage [2][3] - Preclinical data indicate a synergistic effect of combining a FASN inhibitor with resmetirom on liver disease markers, showing improved NAS and hepatic collagen content compared to single agents [3] Disease Context - MASH is a severe liver disease affecting over 115 million people globally, with limited treatment options available [8] - The renaming of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to MASH aims to provide a more affirmative diagnosis and reduce stigma associated with the disease [8]

Core Insights - 89bio, Inc. is advancing its clinical-stage biopharmaceutical development, focusing on therapies for liver and cardiometabolic diseases, particularly targeting metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and severe hypertriglyceridemia (SHTG) [11] Clinical Trials - The Phase 3 ENLIGHTEN-Fibrosis and ENLIGHTEN-Cirrhosis trials are designed to support accelerated approval for treating patients with MASH, with topline data expected in 1H 2027 and 2028, respectively [1][5] - The ENTRUST trial for SHTG has been fully enrolled, with topline data anticipated in 1Q 2026 [1][5] - Pegozafermin has been recognized in a meta-analysis as one of the most effective agents for fibrosis improvement and MASH resolution, highlighting its potential in the market [2] Financial Position - As of March 31, 2025, the company reported cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaling approximately $638.8 million, an increase from $439.9 million at the end of 2024 [7][15] - The company completed a follow-on equity offering in 1Q 2025, generating gross proceeds of $287.5 million [4] - A $150 million credit facility with K2 HealthVentures has been established, with $35 million drawn down [4] Expenses and Losses - Research and development expenses for Q1 2025 were $64.4 million, up from $47.4 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to increased clinical development costs [8] - General and administrative expenses rose to $11.5 million in Q1 2025 from $9.8 million in Q1 2024, driven by higher personnel-related costs [9] - The net loss for Q1 2025 was reported at $71.3 million, compared to a net loss of $51.7 million in Q1 2024, attributed to higher R&D and G&A expenses [10]