Leriglitazone for X-linked andrenoleukodystrophy

Tirzepatide is a new type of drug that is administered by subcutaneous injection and acts on two proteins known as the gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and results in more insulin being released from the pancreas. Tirzepatide has the potential to improve blood sugar levels and increase weight loss compared to current treatment options. If licenced, tirzepatide will offer an additional treatment option for patients with T2DM.

Setmelanotide is a protein that binds to a specific receptor to activate areas in the brain that control appetite. This reduces hunger sensations and therefore obesity. This is important in BBS and AS as obesity and hyperphagia are symptoms in both syndromes and these conditions can have damaging effects on the health of patients. If licensed, setmelanotide, given as an injection under the skin, will offer a first pharmacological treatment for BBS and AS.

Pegunigalsidase alfa is produced by a method known as ‘recombinant DNA technology’: it is made by cells into which a gene (DNA) has been introduced, which makes them able to produce the enzyme. The replacement enzyme has also been modified to reduce the rate at which it is removed from the body, allowing it to act for longer. Pegunigalsidase alfa was designed to increase amount of medicine in the blood and reduce the ability of a substance to provoke an immune response, thereby enhancing efficacy compared with available products. If licensed, pegunigalsidase alfa would offer an additional first-line, long -term ERT options for adult and paediatric patients (>3 yr) diagnosed with FD.

Semaglutide is in clinical development for the treatment of overweight and obese individuals. Excess weight can place stress on both mental and physical health, leading a number of complications such as depression, low self-esteem, and increased risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Weight can be affected by a number of factors such as diet, physical activity, genetics and general health conditions, however diet and exercise are the two main contributing factors. Being overweight is reversible through lifestyle changes such as increased exercise, healthy diet and a net calorie deficit, along with help through counselling and medication. If weight is not able to be controlled, surgery may be required. Therefore, there is an unmet need for pharmacological therapies that target both weight and glucose control.