Pharmaceutical CEO of Roche identifies profitable prospects in the multi-billion-dollar sector
In a significant development in the pharmaceutical industry, Pegozafermin, a potential treatment for metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), is showing promising results in late-stage Phase III clinical trials. The drug is being developed by 89bio, a company that recently secured a deal with Roche for acquisition in 2025.
Pegozafermin has demonstrated excellent results in a Phase-II study, with its effect lasting for 48 weeks. The drug has a positive impact on metabolic processes and has been found to significantly improve liver fibrosis. Moreover, cell damage and fat accumulation were reversed in patients on Pegozafermin during the study.
Inflammation values of patients on Pegozafermin were no longer too high, indicating a favourable response to the treatment. Furthermore, 37% of patients on Pegozafermin experienced MASH regression without fibrosis worsening, compared to the placebo, suggesting a potential for the drug in managing this condition.
The potential for Pegozafermin extends beyond MASH. It may also be tested for the treatment of cirrhosis-associated MASH and severe hypertriglyceridemia. If successful, Pegozafermin could be the first drug against this severe form of the disease.
Graham, an industry expert, sees a commercial potential for Pegozafermin in the multi-billion range. He believes that the drug's suitability for combinations with obesity-related active ingredients and Roche's obesity and diabetes portfolio increases its market potential.
The market for treatments related to MASH and severe hypertriglyceridemia is projected to grow from $2.4 billion last year to $10 to $30 billion by the 2030s, providing a significant opportunity for Pegozafermin.
As the clinical trials progress, the pharmaceutical industry awaits the potential breakthrough that Pegozafermin could bring in the treatment of MASH and related conditions.
