Characterization of LY3324954 a long-acting glucagon-receptor agonist.

Abstract

Glucagon is a crucial regulator of glucose and lipid metabolism as well as whole-body energy balance. Thus, modulation of glucagon receptor (GCGR) activity in the context of single-molecule multi-receptor co-agonists has become an emerging therapeutic target against obesity and obesity-associated metabolic dysfunction. To better elucidate the role of GCGR-signaling when paired with incretin receptor signaling or on its own, we developed, LY3324954, a GCGR agonist with improved potency and selectivity as compared to the native glucagon peptide. LY3324954 also exhibited extended pharmacokinetic (PK) profile in DIO mice, rats, dogs, and monkeys. When administered every 72h, LY3324954 treatment stimulated transient glucose and insulin excursions in lean mice. In diet-induced obese mice, LY3324954 treatment stimulates energy expenditure, weight loss, and a reduction of adiposity in a dose-dependent manner. Benefit to whole-body lipid homeostasis was likewise observed in these mice. Taken together, these studies characterize a long-acting and potent GCGR-agonist and its regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism as well as whole-body energy balance following both acute and chronic treatment in mice.