Confo Therapeutics has selected CFTX-2034, an SSTR5 agonist antibody, as its new development candidate aimed at treating post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH), a serious metabolic condition linked to hyperinsulinemia. The company is advancing CFTX-2034 through IND-enabling studies towards clinical testing, marking a significant expansion of its GPCR-targeting therapeutic pipeline for metabolic and endocrine disorders.

Cedric Ververken, CEO of Confo Therapeutics, said: “Since committing to the metabolic and endocrine disease therapeutic area, our focused discovery efforts have enabled us to rapidly define a promising candidate with CFTX-2034. PBH is an indication in high need of effective treatments, and we believe highly selective SSTR5 agonism is a promising option for patients. This achievement highlights the value of our technology and our team’s ability to translate our deep knowledge of GPCRs to discover and develop novel antagonistic and agonistic antibody-based therapeutics.”

CFTX-2034 represents Confo’s first agonistic antibody development candidate, following the successful out-licensing of its earlier program, CFTX-1554, to Eli Lilly and Company in 2023. The antibody was selected based on preclinical data demonstrating high potency, receptor selectivity, and a favourable pharmacokinetic and safety profile. By selectively activating the SSTR5 receptor, a key regulator of insulin secretion, CFTX-2034 is designed to restore a balanced insulin response and reduce the risk of hypoglycemic events while minimising off-target effects.

Paolo Vicini, CDO of Confo Therapeutics, added: “Patients with PBH or other conditions of hyperinsulinemia have significant unmet needs, with current treatments often lacking long-term efficacy. With the nomination of CFTX-2034, Confo is advancing an antibody candidate designed to address the underlying complexities of these disorders with greater precision and durability. We look forward to progressing IND-enabling studies, building on the promising strong preclinical data generated to date.”

PBH develops after weight loss surgery and is characterised by excessive insulin production following food intake, which can lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels. Symptoms include impaired cognition, loss of consciousness, seizures, and a significant impact on quality of life and independence. CFTX-2034’s mechanism involves regulating postprandial insulin and GLP-1 levels, reducing gastrointestinal motility, and stabilising blood glucose to prevent hypoglycemic episodes.

CFTX-2034’s development underscores Confo Therapeutics’ expertise in rapidly advancing differentiated GPCR-targeting therapeutics, particularly for metabolic and endocrine conditions with high unmet medical needs.