Immunic’s IMU-856 shows promise in weight management

NEW YORK - Immunic, Inc. (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:IMUX), a biotech firm focused on chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, has shared promising data regarding its oral treatment candidate, IMU-856. According to InvestingPro data, the company maintains a strong liquidity position with a current ratio of 2.71, though it faces significant cash burn challenges as it advances its clinical programs. The compound has demonstrated a dose-dependent increase in endogenous glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels in a phase 1b clinical trial with celiac disease patients, as well as a reduction in body weight gain and food consumption in preclinical studies.

GLP-1 is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and satiety after eating. IMU-856, targeting SIRT6, has shown potential in activating enteroendocrine cells, which produce GLP-1, suggesting a broader activation of enteroendocrine hormones compared to existing incretin mimetics.

The phase 1b trial revealed a statistically significant increase in GLP-1 levels, with up to a 250% rise versus placebo. This effect was observed under fasting conditions, indicating that IMU-856 might mimic the natural post-meal increase in GLP-1 levels. Additionally, a six-month preclinical study showed up to a 40% reduction in body weight gain and food intake in a dose-dependent manner.

Daniel Vitt, Ph.D., CEO of Immunic, expressed optimism about these findings, highlighting the potential for IMU-856 to offer an oral treatment option for obesity, a market projected to exceed $170 billion by 2031. While the company’s market capitalization stands at $94 million, InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is currently undervalued, despite showing high volatility with a beta of 1.87. Get deeper insights into IMUX’s valuation and 10+ additional ProTips with an InvestingPro subscription.

IMU-856 has also been linked to tissue renewal effects, including the regeneration of epithelial cells, which may benefit various gastrointestinal diseases. The drug is phase 2 ready, with Immunic preparing for further clinical testing.

The company will present phase 1b biomarker data for IMU-856 at the 19th Congress of ECCO and has hosted a webcast to discuss these developments.

IMU-856 is still investigational and has not been approved by any regulatory authority. Immunic continues to evaluate the data and assess next steps for this potential treatment option for weight management and intestinal barrier function associated diseases.

In other recent news, Immunic Inc. has been highlighted by H.C. Wainwright, which initiated coverage with a Buy rating, citing the potential of its drug, vidofludimus calcium, in treating multiple sclerosis (MS). The firm pointed to the positive interim analysis from the Phase 3 ENSURE trial in relapsing MS as a significant de-risking factor for the company. Additionally, results from the Phase 2 CALLIPER trial in progressive MS are anticipated in April 2025, focusing on brain volume change, which could further validate the drug’s neuroprotective effects. Piper Sandler has also identified Immunic as one of the companies with key Phase 2b and Phase 3 readouts expected in 2025, highlighting its potential in the biotech sector.

Furthermore, Immunic announced updates to the employment terms of its CEO, Dr. Daniel Vitt, who will temporarily relocate to the United States. His new agreement includes maintaining his current salary and eligibility for equity incentives, with housing expenses potentially reimbursed up to $100,000 monthly under certain conditions. These changes are part of a broader adjustment to Immunic’s leadership structure, as detailed in a recent 8-K filing. Dr. Vitt’s service on the management board of Immunic AG will be paused during his relocation, with plans for reappointment upon his return.

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