Qeios (02487.HK) announced that its potential class 1 new drug CU-20401 (recombinant mutant collagenase) for the treatment of submental fat accumulation has completed phase II clinical trials for all participants.

CU-20401 is a recombinant mutant collagenase that targets metabolic diseases related to obesity, overweight, or other local fat accumulations. CU-20401 utilizes an innovative mechanism of action as a collagenase that selectively acts on the extracellular matrix attached to adipose tissue. Following local injection, CU-20401 degrades collagen proteins in the subcutaneous fat layer, leading to adipocyte apoptosis, which is expected to effectively reduce local fat accumulation. Through technological improvements, CU-20401 catalyzes collagen degradation at a lower rate, showing mild catalytic activity, thereby reducing the side effects of wild-type collagenases such as bruising and pain.