China-based Laekna Therapeutics has reported positive results from a US Phase I single ascending dose study of LAE102, its selective ActRIIA-targeting monoclonal antibody (mAb). The data showed encouraging, dose-related trends in increasing lean body mass and reducing fat mass. In the cohort with the highest drug exposure, participants experienced a mean increase in lean body mass of 5.06% and a mean reduction in fat mass of 0.12% after a single dose, whereas the placebo group saw a decrease in lean mass and an increase in fat mass. The drug was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events reported.

LAE102 is designed to modulate the activin receptor pathway, which plays a key role in muscle regeneration and fat metabolism. Preclinical studies suggest the candidate could mitigate the muscle loss associated with GLP-1 receptor agonist therapies for weight management. Laekna completed a separate multiple ascending dose study in China in September 2025, which also demonstrated positive body composition changes. The company is now planning Phase II trials to evaluate LAE102 in combination with incretin-based therapies and is in discussions with potential partners to accelerate the drug's global development for high-quality weight control.

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