PB-718 is a dual agonist that activates both the GLP-1 receptor and the glucagon receptor. The two activated receptors are associated with suppressed appetite, weight loss, and increased energy expenditure, creating a synergistic effect superior to that of either of the receptor agonist acting alone. In addition, PB-718 can reduce lipid accumulation in liver which prevents hepatic cell death and consequent liver fibrosis. Thus, PB-718 has the therapeutic potential for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

PB-718 has been identified from screening multiple dual agonists to reach the optimal activation of both receptors, so as to pursue maximal weight loss and improvement in NAFLD while ensuring the drug safety.

Moreover, PB-718 is PEGylated to prolong the drug half-life, which reduces the administration frequency to once per week. This will greatly increase the convenience of use of PB-718 in NASH/NAFLD patients. The phase I clinical trial of PB-718 is currently ongoing in US.