Well, Scholar Rock holding on to gain since reporting that his spinal muscular atrophy drug helped patients on Eli Liy Zeppbound reduce muscle loss, a known risk factor tied to GLP1 obesity drugs. The drug is still in mid-stage trials for weight loss, but currently under FDA priority review to treat SMA, a genetic muscle wasting disease. Joining us now to dig into the results is Scholar Rock CEO David Halal.David, great to have you with us. Great to be with you, Melissa. Um, so walk us through the data beca ...

Core Insights - Northstrive Biosciences Inc. has completed a Phase I strategic research and literature synthesis for its first-in-class oral myostatin-engineered probiotic, EL-22, aimed at addressing muscle-wasting conditions [1][7] - The analysis, conducted with Yuva Biosciences, provided insights into EL-22's mechanism of action and its potential to meet critical needs in muscle-wasting conditions such as GLP-1-associated atrophy and age-related sarcopenia [1][7] Company Overview - Northstrive Biosciences Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company under PMGC Holdings Inc., focusing on developing innovative aesthetic medicines [4] - The lead asset, EL-22, utilizes a myostatin-engineered probiotic approach to help preserve muscle during weight loss treatments, particularly with GLP-1 receptor agonists [4] Product Highlights - EL-22 employs a myostatin-engineered probiotic strategy to combat obesity-related muscle loss during weight loss treatments, offering a patient-friendly oral delivery method [2][4] - The product is designed to induce an immune response against myostatin, a key regulator of muscle growth, using genetically engineered Lactobacillus casei [2] Research Findings - The report highlights significant effects of EL-22 in mdx mice, including improvements in antibody production, serum creatine kinase levels, body weight, motor function, and muscle histology [7] - EL-22's unique oral vaccine approach distinguishes it from traditional systemic antibody or gene therapy methods, aiming to stimulate both mucosal and systemic immunity against myostatin [7] Market Positioning - With the rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists in obesity and diabetes treatment, EL-22 is strategically positioned to address the associated muscle loss concerns [7] - Northstrive plans to initiate a Phase 2 proof-of-concept trial targeting GLP-1 users and engage in regulatory discussions to advance EL-22 towards an IND filing in the U.S. [7]