Summary of Galectin Therapeutics (GALT) Update / Briefing Company Overview - **Company**: Galectin Therapeutics (GALT) - **Focus**: Development of belapectin as a treatment for NASH cirrhosis and portal hypertension, addressing a significant unmet medical need [2][4] Industry Context - **Condition**: NASH cirrhosis is a leading cause of liver transplantation in the US, with an estimated 5 million adults affected, including 3.3 million with portal hypertension [8][9] - **Market Opportunity**: Belapectin is positioned as a first-in-class therapy for NASH cirrhosis, with peak sales potential estimated at $18 billion [15] Clinical Trial Insights - **Clinical Trials**: Multiple Phase IIb trials conducted, including the NAVIGATE trial, which focused on patients with NASH cirrhosis and portal hypertension [5][19] - **Mechanism of Action**: Belapectin is a Galectin-3 inhibitor, which has shown anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in preclinical studies [5][6] NAVIGATE Trial Findings - **Patient Population**: Included patients with compensated NASH cirrhosis and portal hypertension, with no baseline varices [20][21] - **Primary Endpoint**: Focused on the development of esophageal varices and other hepatic decompensation events [22][36] - **Results**: - Statistically significant reduction in new varices in the belapectin 2 mg/kg group (11.3% vs. 22.3% in placebo) [27] - Reduction in liver stiffness observed, indicating less disease progression [28][30] - Safety profile comparable to placebo, with no significant adverse events reported [31][37] Key Opinion Leaders' Perspectives - **Expert Opinions**: KOLs emphasized the urgent need for effective therapies in the NASH cirrhosis population, highlighting belapectin's potential to fill this gap [8][9][12] - **Market Feedback**: Positive responses from payers and physicians regarding the clinical and economic benefits of belapectin [14] Additional Insights - **Endoscopic Endpoint**: The NAVIGATE trial utilized centrally adjudicated endoscopy videos to track variceal development, enhancing the reliability of results [39][41] - **Comparison with Other Therapies**: Belapectin targets a more advanced patient population compared to other investigational therapies, which often select for less severe cases [62][63] Conclusion - **Future Outlook**: Belapectin shows promise in addressing the unmet needs of patients with advanced NASH cirrhosis and portal hypertension, with a favorable safety profile and significant market potential [36][60]