Zafgen’s first generation product, ZGN-433, is being studied its use as a pharmacological alternative to bariatric surgery in the treatment of severe obesity.
Zafgen’s lead molecule is being developed as a twice-weekly subcutaneous injection for severe obesity.
The company expects to enter Phase 2 trials in obese patients and obese diabetic patients in the next six to 12 months.
Zafgen is also developing new compounds suitable for oral administration for use in broader indications as part of its second generation program.
ZGN-433 (beloranib hemioxalate) was initially developed by CKD Pharmaceuticals.
The molecule was originally profiled for efficacy in the treatment of solid tumors.
Zafgen holds exclusive worldwide rights (exclusive of Korea) for development and commercialization of ZGN-433.
Zafgen president and CEO Thomas Hughes said this Series C funding provides further validation of the promise of MetAP2 inhibitor treatment as a pharmacological alternative to bariatric surgery in the treatment of severe obesity and is a testament to the progress we have made in advancing their drug development efforts.