Akero’s drug efruxifermin demonstrates potential to reduce the effects of MASH
- Akero Therapeutics presents data that shows its drug efruxifermin can reduce the effects of MASH
- 75% of MASH patients on a high dose of efruxifermin saw an improvement in liver fibrosis
- Akero’s data suggests its drug may be more effective than other drugs tested so far
- Lilly’s drug tirzepatide had previously caused concerns among investors
- Akero’s drug’s decrease in fibrosis exceeded expectations and previous data from competitors
- Akero shares rose 28% after the announcement of the positive data
- Detailed safety data showed 15 serious adverse events in the trial
- Analysts believe the positive results wash away concerns about competition from drugs like tirzepatide
- Other biotechs developing MASH drugs, like 89bio, also saw stock increases
- MASH is an advanced liver disorder that can lead to cancer or liver failure
Less than a month after Eli Lilly released trial results that seemed to kick the legs out from under the biotech companies racing to develop treatments for the serious liver condition now known as MASH, Akero Therapeutics is roaring back with data that analysts say could be the best yet presented. Akero said that in a mid-stage study of MASH patients, 75% of those on a high dose of its drug efruxifermin saw an improvement in liver fibrosis of at least one stage. That compares with 24% of patients who received a placebo. Akero’s data suggests that its drug can actually reduce the serious effects of MASH, potentially more effectively than any other drugs tested so far. Akero shares opened at $35.51 on Monday morning, up 28% from their previous close of $27.81.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides detailed information about the recent developments in the field of MASH treatments, including data from Akero Therapeutics and Eli Lilly. It presents statistics and comparisons between different drugs effectively, without significant bias or sensationalism. The information provided seems well-researched and based on trial results.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides a detailed analysis of the competition between Eli Lilly and Akero Therapeutics in developing treatments for MASH. It includes data from trials, stock market reactions, and analyst opinions. The article stays on topic and supports its claims with evidence and examples. However, it contains some repetitive information and could benefit from more in-depth exploration of the long-term implications of these developments.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The article does not provide specific information about financial markets or companies impacted.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Rating Justification: The article discusses the potential impact of Akero Therapeutics’ drug efruxifermin on the treatment of MASH, a serious liver condition. However, there is no mention of any extreme event or specific financial market impact.
Public Companies: Akero Therapeutics (AKRO), Eli Lilly (LLY), Madrigal Pharmaceuticals (MDGL)
Private Companies: 89bio
Key People: Michael Yee (Jefferies analyst), Prakhar Agrawal (Cantor Fitzgerald analyst)
Reported publicly:
www.marketwatch.com 
