Perlecan Pharma has commenced the phase I clinical trials of its new generation pan-PPAR activator drug candidate DRL 11605 in Canada. The drug candidate is being developed for the treatment of obesity with or without accompanying diabetes and lipid disorders.

According to a company release, DRL 11605 works by a new mechanism. It activates all isoforms of PPAR receptors which control fat, lipid and glucose utilisation by the body. It represents one of the first pan-PPAR activators to be developed for treatment of obesity.

In animal models of obesity, treatment with DRL 11605 has shown marked reduction in body weight as well as improvements in blood glucose and lipids. Weight loss can be achieved by decreasing food intake or by better use of fat by the body. In the preclinical models, weight-reducing effect of DRL 11605 is mediated by improved fat utilisation without any effect on food intake.

Commenting on the development, Dr. K Anji Reddy, chairman, Perlecan Pharma said, "Introduction of new agents that address not only weight issue but also impart significant benefit in treating other co-morbid conditions such as diabetes and dyslipidemia is of paramount importance. We will continue to build a strong pipeline of NCEs to address the various manifestations of metabolic syndrome."

The objectives of the current phase I trials are to evaluate safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of DRL 11605 when administered to healthy subjects over a range of single doses. The data from this study would support further development of DRL 11605 as a potential anti-obesity agent, adds the release.

The DRL 11605 was discovered under Dr. Reddy's Drug Discovery Programme wherein the molecule completed its pre-clinical trials before it was transferred to Perlecan along with three other NCEs for further development.

Obesity is a growing medical problem worldwide and is a major risk factor for development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Perlecan Pharma Private Limited is India's first integrated drug development company, promoted in September 2005 by Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Limited.