AbbVie And Gubra Join Forces On Potential Obesity Treatment

AbbVie and Gubra, a company specialising in preclinical contract research and peptide-based drug discovery for metabolic and fibrotic diseases, have entered a license agreement to develop GUB014295. This investigational drug is a long-acting amylin analogue undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials for obesity treatment. GUB014295 is an agonist designed to activate amylin and calcitonin receptors. Amylin, a hormone linked to satiety, has been recognised as a potential target for obesity management. It plays a key role in appetite suppression, reducing food intake, and delaying gastric emptying, making it a promising therapeutic candidate. 

"At AbbVie, we are focused on transforming the future of patient care in areas where significant unmet need persists. Our partnership with Gubra marks our entry into the obesity field, offering a compelling opportunity based on the potential to address patient needs while also fostering long-term growth for our company," said Robert A. Michael, chief executive officer of AbbVie. 

Roopal Thakkar, M.D., executive vice president, research & development, chief scientific officer, AbbVie, said, "Obesity represents a significant global health concern with nearly 900 million adults with obesity, many of whom struggle to stay on current treatment options. Building on Gubra's experience in discovering novel peptide-based therapeutics, we look forward to advancing the development of the GUB014295 program."

Under the agreement, AbbVie will take charge of the global development and commercialisation of GUB014295. Gubra will receive an upfront payment of $350 million and could earn up to $1.875 billion in milestone payments, along with tiered royalties based on global net sales. The deal's completion is contingent on regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Morgan Stanley & Co. International plc acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Gubra, while Goodwin Procter LLP and Plesner Advokatpartnerselskab provided legal counsel.

"We are excited to partner with AbbVie given its strong capabilities in developing and commercialising life-changing medicines. This collaboration between Gubra and AbbVie will accelerate the development of GUB014295 and build on the promising data shown in its Phase 1 single ascending dose (SAD) trial. Our team has been highly impressed with AbbVie's commitment to bringing this vital partnership to life. We look forward to working together throughout the development of the GUB014295 program," mentioned Henrik Blou, chief executive officer of Gubra.