The company reported results from preclinical research demonstrating that antibodies directed to a potential new target, angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4), rapidly lower triglycerides and cholesterol. Research suggests that a monoclonal antibody targeting ANGPTL4 may have therapeutic application in the treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Lexicon scientists first identified ANGPTL4 as a potential target for cardiovascular disease using the company’s gene knockout technology.
Lexicon scientists created animal models that had alterations in specific genes in order to discover the physiological and behavioral effects that result from the loss of the protein encoded by the gene. Researchers found that animal models in which the ANGPTL4 gene was knocked out had lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels than normal animals.
Lexicon’s biotherapeutics group developed a monoclonal antibody as an injectable agent targeting the ANGPTL4 protein to reproduce the triglyceride and cholesterol- lowering effects identified in the animal models. “Notably, this appears to be the first successful production of a monoclonal antibody to this target,” the company said in a press release.
Lexicon is collaborating with Genentech to develop and commercialize new biologic drugs based on the companies’ research. Under the collaboration, Lexicon has the right to develop and commercialize biotherapeutic drugs for up to six targets. ANGPTL4, referred to internally as LG842, is one of two targets already chosen by Lexicon.