Novo Nordisk licenses triple agonist UBT251 from United Laboratories for obesity and diabetes

CHINA/DENMARK — The United Laboratories International Holdings Limited (TUL) and Novo Nordisk A/S have entered into an exclusive licensing agreement for UBT251, an innovative triple agonist targeting the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), and glucagon receptors.

This innovative drug is currently undergoing early-stage clinical trials for the treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and various other diseases.

Under the terms of this partnership, Novo Nordisk will acquire exclusive worldwide rights to develop, manufacture, and market UBT251.

However, United Biotechnology- TUL’s wholly-owned subsidiary- will retain those rights in regions such as the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.

This strategic alliance highlights Novo Nordisk’s dedication to expanding its range of treatments for cardiometabolic diseases while allowing TUL to enhance its global footprint in chronic disease management.

UBT251 is a long-acting synthetic peptide that has demonstrated powerful activity on all three targeted receptors during preclinical studies.

In China, it has been classified as a Class 1 innovative drug and is already approved for clinical trials in both China and the United States for several indications, including adult type 2 diabetes, overweight or obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Recently, United Biotechnology launched a phase 2 trial of UBT251 aimed at individuals with overweight or obesity in China, following promising results from a previous phase 1b trial.

The phase 1b trial, conducted in China, involved 36 participants split into three dose groups, each receiving weekly subcutaneous injections for 12 weeks.

The trial showed a safety profile similar to that of incretin-based therapies, with gastrointestinal side effects being the most frequently observed.

Notably, participants in the highest dose group experienced an average weight loss of 15.1% from their baseline, while those receiving a placebo saw a 1.5% increase in weight.

In this agreement, United Biotechnology will receive an upfront payment of US$200 million, with potential milestone payments from Novo Nordisk that could reach up to US$1.8 billion.

 Additionally, United Biotechnology will earn tiered royalties on net sales outside of the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan’

This financial framework highlights UBT251’s substantial potential and illustrates the strategic significance of the partnership.

Martin Holst Lange, Executive Vice President for Development at Novo Nordisk, emphasized the company’s commitment to improving treatment options for individuals living with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other cardiometabolic conditions.

He noted that incorporating UBT251 into their clinical pipeline will provide important flexibility, enabling Novo Nordisk to develop a diverse array of differentiated treatment options that meet the varying needs of patients facing these widespread issues.

Mr. Tsoi Hoi Shan, Chairman of TUL, expressed his satisfaction with the licensing agreement, stating that Novo Nordisk’s strong presence in chronic disease treatment will be crucial in speeding up the global development of UBT251.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in TUL’s ambition to solidify its global strategic presence while demonstrating its commitment to driving innovation.

TUL will continue to promote scientific advancement, pursue high-quality sustainable development, and work towards establishing a competitive framework for manufacturing, research and development, and commercialization on a global scale.

The completion of this transaction is pending regulatory clearance and other customary closing conditions.

Once finalized, this partnership could profoundly reshape the treatment landscape for obesity and diabetes worldwide, providing a more effective therapeutic option for millions of people.