BioAge expands APJ agonist pipeline with oral small-molecule and long-acting antibody candidates

BioAge Labs

BioAge announced it is developing novel APJ agonists beyond azelaprag, advancing both an oral small-molecule candidate and a long-acting biologic (antibody) in collaboration with JiKang Therapeutics. The company intends to file an IND application by year-end 2026. In preclinical obesity models, APJ agonism has demonstrated the ability to more than double weight loss induced by GLP-1 agonists while also restoring healthy body composition and improving muscle function.

• APJ agonism produces exercise-like effects on metabolism and body composition.
• Multiple modalities allow targeting different patient populations and dose regimens.
• JiKang partnership provides access to antibody technology; option agreement structure.
• IND filing targeted for end of 2026; first human studies likely in 2027.