Galectin Therapeutics (GALT) KOL event summary

Disease overview and unmet need

• MASH cirrhosis prevalence is rising in the US, driven by obesity and type 2 diabetes, with over 5 million affected and limited liver transplant availability.

• MASH cirrhosis leads to severe complications, including portal hypertension and high mortality from variceal bleeding.

• No approved pharmacological therapies exist for NASH cirrhosis; current management relies on lifestyle interventions and comorbidity management.

Belapectin mechanism and clinical development

• Belapectin targets Galectin-3, a key driver of fibrosis, reducing its expression and associated inflammation.

• Preclinical and clinical data show belapectin reduces fibrosis, collagen deposition, and portal pressure.

• Market research indicates strong interest from physicians and payers, with a multi-billion dollar market opportunity.

Clinical trial results and efficacy

• Phase II-B (GT-026) showed 2 mg/kg belapectin significantly reduced hepatic venous pressure and new varices development.

• NAVIGATE trial, a large, robustly designed study, validated reduction in new esophageal varices with 2 mg/kg belapectin.

• Safety profile was excellent, with no significant adverse events or drug-induced liver injury.