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A new drug for high triglycerides is turning heads. MAR001, a monoclonal antibody targeting ANGPTL4, slashed fasting triglyceride levels by up to 45% compared to placebo at 12 weeks in a phase 2b trial — with a solid safety profile to boot. Researchers say the findings support further investigation, particularly for patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia.
A new drug for high triglycerides is turning heads at the AHA.
MAR001 (Marea Therapeutics), a monoclonal antibody that inhibits angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4), significantly reduced fasting triglyceride levels across all tested doses in the TYDAL-TIMI 78 phase 2b trial. Presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions, the study enrolled 235 adults with triglycerides ≥175 mg/dL. The drug works by blocking ANGPTL4, which boosts lipoprotein lipase activity and accelerates clearance of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins.
Beyond triglycerides, MAR001 also raised HDL cholesterol and produced a net reduction in atherogenic particles — a promising broader lipid profile effect. The drug was well tolerated, with fewer serious adverse events in the MAR001 group than placebo, and no cases of pancreatitis or elevated liver enzymes.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Hypertriglyceridemia — especially severe cases — carries real risks, including pancreatitis, and current treatment options are limited. MAR001 represents a novel mechanism with dose-dependent efficacy, and a dedicated phase 2b study in severe hypertriglyceridemia is already underway.
