Gastroenterology · 1 h ago
DT-109 improves MASH measures in mice and nonhuman primates
In animal experiments, the experimental compound DT-109 reduced intestinal ammonia and harmful bacteria, strengthened the gut barrier, and lessened liver inflammation associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). The findings suggest a gut–liver mechanism but do not establish benefit or safety in people.
- DT-109 reduced intestinal ammonia in animal models.
- Liver inflammation and MASH severity decreased in primates.
- Human safety and efficacy remain unestablished.
- The university licensed the compound to Diapin Therapeutics.
Researchers tested DT-109, a glycine-based tripeptide, in mice and nonhuman primates to investigate how it affects MASH. The study focused on gut bacteria, intestinal barrier integrity, and liver disease measures. The source does not report sample sizes or numerical effect estimates.
DT-109 reduced levels of *Clostridium perfringens* and intestinal ammonia in both animal models. The researchers report that the compound strengthened the intestinal lining and limited the movement of microbial products into the body. In nonhuman primates, treatment reduced liver inflammation and MASH severity.
The results support further investigation of the gut–liver axis as a potential therapeutic target, but DT-109 remains experimental. Effects in animals may not translate to patients, and the source provides no human efficacy or safety results. The University of Michigan holds a patent and has licensed the compound to Diapin Therapeutics, which supplied DT-109 and is continuing its development; the source also reports relevant inventor and ownership interests.
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Journal of Clinical Investigation (via ScienceDaily): New drug reverses severe fatty liver disease by repairing the gut ↗This is an automated AI-condensed summary that has not yet been reviewed by an editor. Always consult the full item at the original source.