At the TIDES Europe conference in Amsterdam this week, Celltrion and Scohia Pharma presented preclinical data for a new obesity drug candidate, CT-G32/SCO-940, that targets four hormone receptors simultaneously. According to the companies, the quadruple-agonist, which acts on GLP-1, GIP, Glucagon, and Amylin receptors, resulted in greater weight loss in a rat model compared to the triple-agonist Retatrutide when administered at the same molar dosage.
The companies, presenting at the conference held from November 3-5, 2026, characterized CT-G32/SCO-940 as the world’s first drug combination of this kind currently in development. The preclinical findings also indicated a relatively lower loss of fat-free mass as a proportion of total weight loss compared to Retatrutide. An improvement in hyperinsulinemia, or a reduction of elevated insulin levels, was observed in the animal model.
Novel Multi-Receptor Approach
The development of therapeutic approaches for obesity is increasingly moving from single and dual incretin mimetics to more complex receptor combinations, the companies stated in their presentation. Celltrion classified the new candidate within the generations of obesity therapeutics, noting that while approved drugs like Wegovy and Efe function as GLP-1 mono-agonists and Mounjaro as a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist, the quadruple concept aims for broader receptor activation.
Non-Human Primate Tests Suggest Weekly Dosing and Fat-Free Mass Preservation
Pharmacokinetic tests in non-human primates showed an extended drug exposure, which the companies assessed could enable a once-weekly dosing schedule. This finding supports the potential for a convenient dosing regimen if the drug advances through clinical trials. The qualitative composition of the weight loss, with a focus on preserving fat-free mass, was a key highlight of the preclinical data presented.
Development Pathway Ahead
A multi-stage development plan is in place for CT-G32/SCO-940. Celltrion and Scohia Pharma aim to submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by February 2027. The first administration in human patients is planned for the second quarter of 2027. It is important to note that the clinical efficacy and safety profile of the drug candidate in humans have not yet been established.
