Antibody-mediated activation of the FGFR1/Klothoß complex corrects metabolic dysfunction and alters food preference in obese humans.

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) controls metabolic organ homeostasis and eating/drinking behavior via FGF receptor 1/Klothoß (FGFR1/KLB) complexes expressed in adipocytes, pancreatic acinar cells, and the nervous system in mice. Chronic administration of recombinant FGF21 or engineered variants improves metabolic health in rodents, nonhuman primates, and humans; however, the rapid turnover of these molecules limits therapeutic utility. Here we show that the bispecific anti-FGFR1/KLB agonist antibody BFKB8488A induced marked weight loss in obese cynomolgus monkeys while elevating serum adiponectin and the adipose expression of FGFR1 target genes, demonstrating its action as an FGF21 mimetic. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, single ascending-dose study in overweight/obese human participants, subcutaneous BFKB8488A injection caused transient body weight reduction, sustained improvement in cardiometabolic parameters, and a trend toward reduction in preference for sweet taste and carbohydrate intake. These data suggest that specific activation of the FGFR1/KLB complex in humans can be used as therapy for obesity-related metabolic defects.

Adenoma Detection Rate Benchmarks: An Updated Analysis.

Early-onset colorectal cancer prompted organizations to reduce the recommended screening initiation age from 50 to 45 years. The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Quality Assurance in Endoscopy Committee recommends 3 priority quality indicators for colonoscopy services. The adenoma detection rate is considered the most important measure with the established benchmark based upon studies of patients 50 years or older. The incidence of polyps increases with age, so this change has an as-yet-unknown effect on the new benchmark. Five studies were reviewed. Based upon the results, 45- to 50-year-old patients should be included in facilities' adenoma detection rate calculations using the currently recommended benchmarks of 25% for women and men combined, or 20% for women and 30% for men when the genders are calculated separately. Males consistently had more adenomas than females in each of the 3 studies that separated genders, a detail that might merit gender-based adenoma detection rate determinations in some practices. One study indicated caution is advised; it recommends males and females be calculated separately and different benchmarks be used for each gender. The adenoma detection rate has been shown to increase over time. More studies are needed to guide screening quality metrics.

The American College of Gastroenterology's 2021 Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines: A Summary for Gastroenterology Nurses & Associates.

Colorectal cancer ranks third for both men and women as the most common cause of cancer death in the United States. Screening allows for removal of polyps before they turn to cancer or by identifying early-stage colorectal cancers, which are most treatable. The American College of Gastroenterology recently released an update of their 2009 recommendations, which includes average risk individuals between ages 45 and 49 years due to the increased incidence of early-onset colorectal cancers. They consider screening two types of screening options: (1) one-step colonoscopy, which is both diagnostic and therapeutic and (2) two-step options, all of which require a follow-up colonoscopy when the first step is positive. They added the recommendation of daily aspirin for some people aged 50 to 69 years. However, the recommendations for screening remain the same when people do take aspirin. They recommend endoscopists measure cecal intubation rates, adenoma detection rates, and withdrawal times to reduce postcolonoscopy cancers due to missed lesions. They also propose strategies to promote screening adherence and suggest health systems adopt them. These are important updates of which the gastroenterology nurse should be aware and assist with their implementation.

The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Quality Assurance in Endoscopy Committee's Three Priority Quality Indicators for Screening Colonoscopy Services.

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women in the United States. Small polyps are slow to grow and turn to cancer, which provides time for screening and removal of the precancerous polyps so that colorectal cancer is prevented. Quality colonoscopy services are essential to ensure all polyps are found and removed as the final step of colorectal cancer screening. The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Quality Assurance in Endoscopy Committee developed quality indicators for colonoscopy services. The Committee prioritized 3 quality indicators for screening colonoscopies: the frequency of (1) adenoma detection in asymptomatic patients at average risk; (2) adherence to the surveillance intervals for postpolypectomy, postcancer resection, or the 10-year interval for the average-risk patients with good bowel preparations who had negative colonoscopies; and (3) visualization of the cecum by notation and landmark photographic documentation. Gastroenterology nurses, endoscopists, and the quality management team can use the Plan-Do-Study-Act method of quality improvement to meet the established performance targets and prevent interval cancers.

Healthy Food Choices, Physical Activity, and Screening Reduce the Risk of Colorectal Cancer.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States with an estimated 1,806,590 new cases and 606,520 deaths in 2020. Cancer is a public health concern due to the numbers of cases, financial costs, and morbidity and mortality rates. An estimated 42% of all diagnosed cancers and 45% of cancer deaths in the United States in 2014 could be attributed to modifiable risk factors. Colorectal cancer screening is effective because small polyps take years to grow and turn to cancers allowing for early detection and removal of precancerous polyps. Primary prevention of colorectal cancer by risk factor reduction is also effective as these factors cause over half of colorectal cancer cases and deaths. Physical activity, weight control, healthy dietary choices, and abstinence from alcohol and tobacco are protective. The gastroenterology nurse can assess physical activity and food choices as vital signs and recommend a gradual addition of physical activity and a more plant-based diet with reduced processed food. All nurses need to advocate for policy improvements per our pledge to the Code of Ethics for Nurses. Policy changes improve the health of large numbers of people and make healthy behaviors a normalized way of life.

Inhibition of fatty acid synthase with FT-4101 safely reduces hepatic de novo lipogenesis and steatosis in obese subjects with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Results from two early-phase randomized trials.

AIMS: To assess the therapeutic potential of fatty acid synthase (FASN) inhibition with FT-4101, a potent, selective, orally bioavailable, small-molecule by (a) evaluating the dose-response of single FT-4101 doses (3, 6 and 9 mg) on hepatic de novo lipogenesis (DNL) in healthy participants (Study 1) and (b) demonstrating the safety, tolerability and efficacy on hepatic steatosis after 12 weeks of FT-4101 dosing in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD; Study 2). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In Study 1, three sequential cohorts of healthy men (n = 10/cohort) were randomized to receive a single dose of FT-4101 (n = 5/cohort) or placebo (n = 5/cohort) followed by crossover dosing after 7 days. Hepatic DNL was assessed during fructose stimulation from 13 C-acetate incorporation. In Study 2, men and women with NAFLD (n = 14) randomly received 12 weeks of intermittent once-daily dosing (four cycles of 2 weeks on-treatment, followed by 1 week off-treatment) of 3 mg FT-4101 (n = 9) or placebo (n = 5). Steady-state DNL based on deuterated water labelling, hepatic steatosis using magnetic resonance imaging-proton density fat fraction and sebum lipids and circulating biomarkers were assessed. RESULTS: Single and repeat dosing of FT-4101 were safe and well tolerated. Single FT-4101 doses inhibited hepatic DNL dose-dependently. Twelve weeks of 3 mg FT-4101 treatment improved hepatic steatosis and inhibited hepatic DNL. Decreases in sebum sapienate content with FT-4101 at week 11 were not significant compared to placebo and rebounded at week 12. Biomarkers of liver function, glucose and lipid metabolism were unchanged. CONCLUSIONS: Inhibition of FASN with 3 mg FT-4101 safely reduces hepatic DNL and steatosis in NAFLD patients.

Colorectal Cancer Survivors: How Gastroenterology Nurses Can Help Them Thrive.

Overall cancer death rates have fallen since a peak in 1991 due to declining death rates for lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers. A "cancer survivor" is defined as anyone with a cancer diagnosis. Their numbers are increasing for several reasons including better screening, earlier detection, and improved treatments. The American Cancer Society's projections for colorectal cancer in 2020 are 147,950 new cases and 53,200 deaths. By 2024, there will be an estimated 1.71 million colorectal cancer survivors (17% of all cancer survivors) and many will experience long-term consequences. These problems may be the result of one or more treatment options: surgical resection, systemic chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Problems include issues with bowel, ostomy, bladder, sexual health, peripheral neuropathy, and mental health. Colorectal cancer survivors are especially receptive to making lifestyle changes to improve their long-term health. Gastroenterology nurses can utilize evidence-based recommendations for weight management, diet, physical activity, and lifestyle with the goal of preventing recurrence and a second primary cancer and promoting overall long-term health.

An exploratory, randomised, placebo-controlled, 14 day trial of the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator praliciguat in participants with type 2 diabetes and hypertension.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Praliciguat (IW-1973), a soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, amplifies nitric oxide signalling. This exploratory trial investigated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetic profile and pharmacodynamic effects of praliciguat in individuals with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. METHODS: This Phase IIA, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated praliciguat in 26 participants with type 2 diabetes and hypertension on stable glucose- and BP-lowering therapies. Participants were randomly allocated in a 3:5:5 ratio to three groups: placebo (n = 6), praliciguat 40 mg once daily for days 1-14 (n = 10), or praliciguat 20 mg twice daily for days 1-7 then 40 mg once daily for days 8-14 (n = 10). Assessments were made in clinic and included treatment-emergent adverse events, pharmacokinetics, metabolic variables, 24 h BP and heart rate, platelet function, reactive hyperaemia index (RHI) and plasma biomarkers. Participants, the sponsor, the investigator and clinic study staff (except designated pharmacy personnel) were blinded to group assignment. RESULTS: Participants treated for 14 days with praliciguat had least-square mean change-from-baseline differences vs placebo (95% CI) of -0.7 (-1.8, 0.4) mmol/l for fasting plasma glucose, -0.7 (-1.1, -0.2) mmol/l for total cholesterol, -0.5 (-1.0, -0.1) mmol/l for LDL-cholesterol, -23 (-56, 9) for HOMA-IR in those not being treated with insulin, and -5 (-10, 1) mmHg and 3 (-1, 6) beats/min for average 24 h mean arterial pressure and heart rate, respectively. Apart from one serious adverse event (SAE; upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage), praliciguat was well tolerated. Praliciguat did not affect platelet function or RHI. Among exploratory biomarkers, plasma levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine decreased in praliciguat vs placebo recipients. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: In participants with type 2 diabetes and hypertension on standard therapies, over 14 days praliciguat was well tolerated, except for a single SAE, and showed positive trends in metabolic and BP variables. These results support further clinical investigation of praliciguat. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03091920. FUNDING: This trial was funded by Cyclerion Therapeutics.

Randomised, phase 1, dose-finding study of MEDI4166, a PCSK9 antibody and GLP-1 analogue fusion molecule, in overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in people with type 2 diabetes. MEDI4166 is a proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) antibody and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue fusion molecule designed to treat patients with type 2 diabetes who are at risk for cardiovascular disease. In this completed, first-in-human study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of single or multiple doses of MEDI4166 in participants with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: In this phase 1 study that was conducted across 11 clinics in the USA, eligible adults had type 2 diabetes, a BMI of ≥25 kg/m2 to ≤42 kg/m2, and LDL-cholesterol levels ≥1.81 mmol/l. Participants were randomised 3:1 to receive MEDI4166 or placebo using an interactive voice/web response system, which blinded all participants, investigators and study site personnel to the study drug administered. In 'Part A' of the study, five cohorts of participants received a single s.c. injection of MEDI4166 at 10 mg, 30 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg or 400 mg, or placebo. 'Part B' of the study consisted of three cohorts of participants who received an s.c. dose of MEDI4166 once weekly for 5 weeks at 50 mg, 200 mg or 400 mg, or placebo. The primary endpoint in Part A was safety. The co-primary endpoints in Part B were change in LDL-cholesterol levels and area under the plasma glucose concentration-time curve (AUC0-4h) post-mixed-meal tolerance test (MMTT) from baseline to day 36. The pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity of MEDI4166 were also evaluated. RESULTS: MEDI4166 or placebo was administered to n = 30 or n = 10 participants, respectively, in Part A of the study, and n = 48 or n = 15 participants, respectively, in Part B. The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were comparable between MEDI4166 and placebo in both Part A (60% vs 50%) and Part B (79% vs 87%) of the study. Common TEAEs with MEDI4166 included injection-site reactions, diarrhoea and headache; there was no evidence for dose-related increases in TEAEs. In Part B of the study, at all tested doses of MEDI4166, there was a significant decrease in LDL-cholesterol levels vs placebo (least squares mean [95% CI]; MEDI4166 50 mg, -1.25 [-1.66, -0.84]; MEDI4166 200 mg, -1.97 [-2.26, -1.68]; MEDI4166 400 mg, -1.96 [-2.23, -1.70]; placebo, -0.03 [-0.35, 0.28]; all p < 0.0001). However, there were no clinically relevant reductions or significant differences between MEDI4166 vs placebo in glucose AUC0-4h post-MMTT (least squares mean [95% CI]; MEDI4166 50 mg, -10.86 [-17.69, -4.02]; MEDI4166 200 mg, -4.23 [-8.73, 0.28]; MEDI4166 400 mg, -2.59 [-7.14, 1.95]; placebo, -4.84 [-9.95, 0.28]; all p > 0.05). MEDI4166 was associated with a pharmacokinetic profile supportive of weekly dosing and an overall treatment-induced anti-drug antibody-positive rate of 22%. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: MEDI4166 was associated with an acceptable tolerability profile and significantly decreased LDL-cholesterol levels in a dose-dependent manner in overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes. However, there were no significant reductions in postprandial glucose levels at any dose of MEDI4166. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02524782 FUNDING: This study was funded by MedImmune LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, USA.

Refocusing the Lens: Caring and Compassion in an Online Nursing Environment.

The concept of compassionate caring in an online nursing education environment is an idea that has limited research. The College of Nursing at Sacred Heart University has adopted a caring model and philosophy to foster an engaged, mutually beneficial environment and guide how faculty and students interact in the online environment. Examples of how faculty engage students in these behaviors are offered.

Single-dose euglycaemic clamp studies demonstrating pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic similarity between MK-1293 insulin glargine and originator insulin glargine (Lantus) in subjects with type 1 diabetes and healthy subjects.

AIMS: MK-1293 is an insulin glargine that has an amino acid sequence identical to that of Lantus, the originator insulin glargine. Two euglycaemic clamp studies, 1 in subjects with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and 1 in healthy subjects, were conducted to demonstrate pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) similarity between MK-1293 and Lantus commercially procured in both the European Union (EU-Lantus) and the USA (US-Lantus). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Both studies were single-dose, randomized, double-blind, single-centre, crossover studies with ≥7 days between dosing periods. A 2-treatment, 4-period replicate crossover study in T1D subjects (N = 76) compared the PK and PD of MK-1293 to EU-Lantus for 30 hours after dosing. A 3-period crossover study in healthy subjects (N = 109) compared the PK and PD of MK-1293, EU-Lantus and US-Lantus for 24 hours after dosing. In both studies, all subjects received single 0.4 units/kg subcutaneous doses of MK-1293 or Lantus in all dosing periods. Pharmacokinetic assessment was based on LC-MS/MS-based measurement of the major insulin glargine metabolite (M1) and PD was characterized using the euglycaemic clamp platform. RESULTS: In both studies, pre-specified similarity criteria were met between MK-1293 and Lantus for comparison of PK (AUC0-24 and Cmax of M1) and PD (GIR-AUC0-24 , GIR-AUC0-12 , GIR-AUC12-24 , and GIRmax ) primary endpoints. All treatments were well tolerated. CONCLUSION: Based on comparative assessment in both T1D and healthy subjects, it can be concluded that the PK and PD properties of MK-1293 are highly similar to those of Lantus. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02059174).

Bimagrumab improves body composition and insulin sensitivity in insulin-resistant individuals.

AIM: To test the hypothesis that an improving body composition in insulin-resistant individuals could enhance insulin sensitivity. METHODS: A total of 16 people with a mean body mass index of 29.3 kg/m2 and insulin resistance, received a single dose of bimagrumab or placebo and were assessed at week 10 for insulin sensitivity, using a hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp and an intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT), and for body composition using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and positron-emission tomography. RESULTS: Bimagrumab increased lean mass by 2.7% (P < .05) and reduced fat mass by 7.9% (P = .011) at week 10 compared with placebo, and had a neutral effect on body weight. Bimagrumab reduced glycated haemoglobin by 0.21% at week 18 (P < .001) and improved insulin sensitivity by ~20% (according to the clamp) to ~40% (according to the IVGTT). CONCLUSION: Taking the observed changes together, and given that these occurred without accompanying dietary intervention and without any prescribed regular physical exercise, bimagrumab may offer a novel approach for the treatment of the metabolic complications of obesity.

Efficacy and safety of the farnesoid X receptor agonist obeticholic acid in patients with type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Obeticholic acid (OCA; INT-747, 6α-ethyl-chenodeoxycholic acid) is a semisynthetic derivative of the primary human bile acid chenodeoxycholic acid, the natural agonist of the farnesoid X receptor, which is a nuclear hormone receptor that regulates glucose and lipid metabolism. In animal models, OCA decreases insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis. METHODS: We performed a double-blind, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept study to evaluate the effects of OCA on insulin sensitivity in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Patients were randomly assigned to groups given placebo (n = 23), 25 mg OCA (n = 20), or 50 mg OCA (n = 21) once daily for 6 weeks. A 2-stage hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic insulin clamp was used to measure insulin sensitivity before and after the 6-week treatment period. We also measured levels of liver enzymes, lipid analytes, fibroblast growth factor 19, 7α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one (a BA precursor), endogenous bile acids, and markers of liver fibrosis. RESULTS: When patients were given a low-dose insulin infusion, insulin sensitivity increased by 28.0% from baseline in the group treated with 25 mg OCA (P = .019) and 20.1% from baseline in the group treated with 50 mg OCA (P = .060). Insulin sensitivity increased by 24.5% (P = .011) in combined OCA groups, whereas it decreased by 5.5% in the placebo group. A similar pattern was observed in patients given a high-dose insulin infusion. The OCA groups had significant reductions in levels of γ-glutamyltransferase and alanine aminotransferase and dose-related weight loss. They also had increased serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and fibroblast growth factor 19, associated with decreased levels of 7α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one and endogenous bile acids, indicating activation of farnesoid X receptor. Markers of liver fibrosis decreased significantly in the group treated with 25 mg OCA. Adverse experiences were similar among groups. CONCLUSIONS: In this phase 2 trial, administration of 25 or 50 mg OCA for 6 weeks was well tolerated, increased insulin sensitivity, and reduced markers of liver inflammation and fibrosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Longer and larger studies are warranted. ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT00501592.

Safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of pegozafermin in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1b/2a multiple-ascending-dose study.

BACKGROUND: Management strategies for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are based predominantly on lifestyle modification, with no approved disease-modifying drugs yet available. We aimed to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of pegozafermin (BIO89-100), a glycoPEGylated FGF21 analogue, in participants with NASH. METHODS: This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1b/2a multiple-ascending-dose study enrolled adults (aged 21-75 years) who had NASH with stage F1-F3 fibrosis, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and a high risk of NASH (referred to in this study as phenotypic NASH) due to central obesity with type 2 diabetes, or central obesity with increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) or a Fibroscan score of 7 kPa or greater, across 12 specialist centres and clinics in the USA. Patients were centrally randomised by use of an interactive web response system to receive subcutaneously administered pegozafermin (3, 9, 18, or 27 mg once weekly; 18 or 36 mg once every 2 weeks) or placebo for 12 weeks. The primary endpoints were the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of pegozafermin. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04048135). FINDINGS: Between July 29, 2019, and Aug 3, 2020, 275 participants were screened and 81 (15 [19%] with biopsy-confirmed NASH) were randomly assigned: 62 to pegozafermin (six to 3 mg once weekly, 12 to 9 mg once weekly, 11 to 18 mg once weekly, ten to 27 mg once weekly, 14 to 18 mg once every 2 weeks, and nine to 36 mg once every 2 weeks) and 19 to placebo; 63 received pegozafermin and 18 received placebo, as one participant in the placebo group inadvertently received 3 mg pegozafermin once weekly. Adverse events were reported in eight (44%) of 18 participants in the pooled placebo group, six (86%) of seven in the 3 mg once weekly pegozafermin group, four (33%) of 12 in the 9 mg once weekly group, seven (64%) of 11 in the 18 mg once weekly group, seven (70%) of ten in the 27 mg once weekly group, eight (57%) of 14 in the 18 mg once every 2 weeks group, and eight (89%) of nine in the 36 mg once every 2 weeks group. The most common treatment-related adverse event was mild increased appetite (in ten [16%] of 63 participants in the pooled pegozafermin group vs none of 18 in the pooled placebo group), which was not associated with bodyweight gain. Two patients discontinued treatment due to an adverse event (one each in the 27 mg once weekly and 18 mg once every 2 weeks groups). No treatment-related serious adverse events or deaths occurred. Dose-proportional pharmacokinetics were observed. Anti-drug antibodies were detected in 41 (65%) of 63 participants treated with pegozafermin. By week 13, pegozafermin significantly reduced the least squares mean (LSM) absolute differences in hepatic fat fraction versus pooled placebo (-8·9% [95% CI -14·8 to -3·1; p=0·0032] for 3 mg once weekly, -11·5% [-16·1 to -6·9; p<0·0001] for 9 mg once weekly, -8·9% [-13·7 to -4·2; p=0·0004] for 18 mg once weekly, -14·9% [-20·1 to -9·7; p<0·0001] for 27 mg once weekly, -10·4% [-14·7 to -6·1; p<0·0001] for 18 mg once every 2 weeks, and -11·1% [-16·2 to -6·0; p<0·0001] for 36 mg once every 2 weeks). At week 13, significant LSM relative reductions versus pooled placebo in ALT were observed for pegozafermin 9 mg once weekly, 18 mg once weekly, 27 mg once weekly, and 36 mg once every 2 weeks. At week 13, significant LSM relative reductions versus pooled placebo in aspartate aminotransferase were observed for pegozafermin 3 mg once weekly, 27 mg once weekly, and 36 mg once every 2 weeks. Significant improvements were also observed with pegozafermin treatment for triglycerides (9 mg once weekly, 27 mg once weekly, and 18 mg once every 2 weeks), LDL-C (9 mg once weekly and 27 mg once weekly), HDL-C (3 mg once weekly and 18 mg once every 2 weeks), non-HDL-C (9 mg once weekly and 27 mg once weekly), adiponectin (all doses except for 36 mg once every 2 weeks), PRO-C3 (27 mg once weekly), and bodyweight (27 mg once weekly). Changes in insulin resistance and HbA1c were not significant. INTERPRETATION: Pegozafermin was generally well tolerated and associated with clinically meaningful reductions in liver fat, measures of liver function, and circulating lipids. Further evaluation of pegozafermin in individuals with NASH is warranted. FUNDING: 89bio.

Clinical trial: Effects of pegozafermin on the liver and on metabolic comorbidities in subjects with biopsy-confirmed nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.

BACKGROUND: An approved therapy for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis remains a major unmet medical need. AIM: To investigate the histological and metabolic benefits of pegozafermin, a glycoPEGylated FGF21 analogue, in subjects with biopsy-confirmed NASH. METHODS: This proof-of-concept, open-label, single-cohort study, part 2 of a phase 1b/2a clinical trial, was conducted at 16 centres in the United States. Adults (age 21-75 years) with NASH (stage 2 or 3 fibrosis, NAS≥4) and magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) ≥8% received subcutaneous pegozafermin 27 mg once weekly for 20 weeks. Primary outcomes were improvements in liver histology, and safety and tolerability. RESULTS: Of 20 enrolled subjects, 19 completed the study. Twelve subjects (63%) met the primary endpoint of ≥2-point improvement in NAFLD activity score with ≥1-point improvement in ballooning or lobular inflammation and no worsening of fibrosis. Improvement of fibrosis without worsening of NASH was observed in 26% of subjects, and NASH resolution without worsening of fibrosis in 32%. Least-squares mean relative change from baseline in MRI-PDFF was -64.7% (95% CI: -71.7, -57.7; p < 0.0001). Significant improvements from baseline were also seen in serum aminotransferases, noninvasive fibrosis tests, serum lipids, glycaemic control and body weight. Adverse events (AEs) were reported in 18 subjects (90%). The most frequently reported AEs were mild/moderate nausea and diarrhoea. There were no serious AEs, discontinuations due to AEs, or deaths. CONCLUSIONS: Pegozafermin treatment for 20 weeks had beneficial effects on hepatic and metabolic parameters and was well tolerated in subjects with NASH. CLINICALTRIALS: gov: NCT04048135.

A Randomized, Single Ascending Dose Study to Assess the Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of a Novel Insulin Dimer.

Insulin molecules of size much greater than natural insulin have been synthesized and studied with the intention of widening the therapeutic window between adequate glycemic control and hypoglycemia as compared with conventional insulins. MK-1092 is a synthetic insulin dimer with favorable properties demonstrated in preclinical studies. Here, we report the results of the first-in-human, randomized, double-blind, active-control, single ascending dose trial of MK-1092, conducted in healthy adults, adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D), and adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D). MK-1092 was well tolerated in all study populations, and no dose-related adverse events were identified across the evaluated dose range (4-64 nmol/kg). Circulating concentrations of MK-1092 were approximately dose-proportional. Maximum glucose infusion rate (GIR) and 24-hour time-weighted average GIR were evaluated under euglycemic clamp conditions. These pharmacodynamic measurements were approximately dose-proportional in all study populations; at similar doses, the GIR parameters were lower in adults with T2D than in healthy adults or adults with T1D, likely due to the influence of insulin resistance. At doses ≥ 16 nmol/kg, MK-1092 had similar or greater effects than glargine 3 nmol/kg (0.5 units/kg) on increasing GIR in each study population and on suppressing free fatty acids and ketone generation in adults with T1D. MK-1092 did not prevent a subsequent high dose of lispro from increasing the GIR in healthy adults. Additional studies in adults with T1D and T2D are needed to further evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy profile of MK-1092 and its potential for differentiation from more conventional insulins. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03170544).

Incorporating protein precipitation to resolve hybrid IP-LC-MS assay interference for ultrasensitive quantification of intact therapeutic insulin dimer in human plasma.

For pharmacokinetics characterization of a therapeutic insulin dimer, an ultrasensitive plasma method was required due to the expected low circulating levels in humans. A bioanalytical strategy combining immunoprecipitation enrichment with liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis of the intact protein offers the opportunity to resolve the analyte from endogenous and exogenous insulin and insulin analogs. Nonetheless, interference from complex background matrix was observed limiting reliable measurements at the low concentration range. A sample preparation approach incorporating protein precipitation and immunoprecipitation was developed and optimized to further reduce sample complexity prior to LC-MS/MS analysis. This approach enabled a deeper level of selectivity and presented a cleaner mass spectrometric detection that may otherwise be confounded. Sample preparation was automated to allow high throughput analysis. The method reached a limit of quantitation at 0.3 ng/mL (25 pM), and a linear dynamic range from 0.3 to 300 ng/mL. Results were highly reproducible, with intra-day and inter-day precision and bias below 11%. Furthermore, the organic solvent treatment involved in protein precipitation is expected to improve assay resistance to the bias introduced by endogenous protein binding such as that exerted by anti-drug antibodies. The method was successfully applied to support clinical pharmacokinetics studies. This approach may potentially be adapted to bioanalysis of low abundance proteins.

Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Human Regular U-500 Insulin Administered via Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion Versus Subcutaneous Injection in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes and High-Dose Insulin Requirements.

INTRODUCTION: Human regular U-500 insulin (U-500R) is approved for subcutaneous (SC) injection in patients with diabetes requiring >200 units/day of insulin. Here, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) profiles following U-500R administered by continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and SC injection in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) on high-dose insulin were studied. METHODS: In this randomized, crossover, euglycemic clamp study, patients received a 100-unit bolus of U-500R via SC injection or CSII with basal infusion using a U-500R specific pump. PK parameters were estimated using non-compartmental methods. PD estimates were derived from the glucose infusion rate during the euglycemic clamp procedure. RESULTS: When corrected for the basal infusion, the PK profiles for the 100-unit bolus of U-500R were similar for CSII and SC injection. Without correction for basal infusion, PK and PD profiles showed a greater insulin concentration and effect when U-500R was administered via CSII compared to SC injection, primarily due to basal insulin infusion for CSII. The ratio of geometric least squares AUC0-tlast means SC:CSII (90% CI) is 0.857 (0.729, 1.01) with correction (mean AUC0-tlast: 5230 pmol*L/h [SC injection] and 6070 pmol*L/h [CSII, with correction]) and 0.424 (0.361, 0.499) without correction (mean AUC0-tlast: 12300 pmol*L/h [CSII, without correction]). Median time-to-peak insulin concentration was six hours (range 0.5-8 hours) via SC injection and five hours (0.5-12 hours) via CSII. CONCLUSIONS: In adults with T2D on high-dose insulin, U-500R PK/PD parameters were similar for a 100-unit bolus when given by SC injection or CSII via a U-500R pump.

Insulin and glucose metabolism with olanzapine and a combination of olanzapine and samidorphan: exploratory phase 1 results in healthy volunteers.

A combination of olanzapine and samidorphan (OLZ/SAM) received US Food and Drug Administration approval in May 2021 for the treatment of adults with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder. OLZ/SAM provides the efficacy of olanzapine, while mitigating olanzapine-associated weight gain. This exploratory study characterized the metabolic profile of OLZ/SAM in healthy volunteers to gain mechanistic insights. Volunteers received once-daily oral 10 mg/10 mg OLZ/SAM, 10 mg olanzapine, or placebo for 21 days. Assessments included insulin sensitivity during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp, other measures of glucose/lipid metabolism, and adverse event (AE) monitoring. Treatment effects were estimated with analysis of covariance. In total, 60 subjects were randomized (double-blind; placebo, n = 12; olanzapine, n = 24; OLZ/SAM, n = 24). Olanzapine resulted in hyperinsulinemia and reduced insulin sensitivity during an OGTT at day 19, changes not observed with OLZ/SAM or placebo. Insulin sensitivity, measured by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp, was decreased in all treatment groups relative to baseline, but this effect was greatest with olanzapine and OLZ/SAM. Although postprandial (OGTT) glucose and fasting cholesterol concentrations were similarly increased with olanzapine or OLZ/SAM, other early metabolic effects were distinct, including post-OGTT C-peptide concentrations and aspects of energy metabolism. Forty-nine subjects (81.7%) experienced at least 1 AE, most mild or moderate in severity. OLZ/SAM appeared to mitigate some of olanzapine's unfavorable postprandial metabolic effects (e.g., hyperinsulinemia, elevated C-peptide) in this exploratory study. These findings supplement the body of evidence from completed or ongoing OLZ/SAM clinical trials supporting its role in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder.