MB07811 reduced hepatic fat content in all animal models tested while T3, the natural TR ligand, failed to reduce hepatic fat content in two of the three models. Additionally, MB07811 increased the expression of fat-burning genes in the liver at doses that were previously shown to be devoid of effects on TR-sensitive gene expression in peripheral tissues. The ability to selectively activate TR-sensitive genes in the liver is attributed to the liver targeting properties of MB07811.
Dr Mark Erion, executive vice president, R&D and chief scientific officer of Metabasis, said: “The findings presented today suggest that MB07811, which is currently being clinically evaluated as a new approach for the treatment of hyperlipidemia, may potentially offer the added benefit of reducing liver fat content. The reduction of liver fat content following oral-administration of MB07811 results from targeting the TR agonist to the liver, which unlike T3, leads to increased fat metabolism in the liver without simultaneous production of fat precursors from peripheral tissues.”