Akston Biosciences and AKS-562c
Akston Biosciences is one of two companies running cat GLP-1 trials. AKS-562c is a once-weekly injection. Cornell is the trial site.
Akston Biosciences is a Beverly, Massachusetts-based biotechnology company developing protein-based therapeutics for both human and veterinary applications. They are one of two companies currently running cat GLP-1 trials. Their candidate, AKS-562c, is a once-weekly GLP-1 Fc-fusion injection being studied at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Trial initiation was announced November 2025.
What Is AKS-562c?
AKS-562c is a GLP-1 receptor agonist fused to an Fc fragment — a protein engineering technique that extends drug half-life by binding to FcRn receptors that recycle proteins through the body. The same Fc-fusion approach is used in human-side drugs like dulaglutide (Trulicity). Fc-fusion typically gives once-weekly to once-monthly dosing.
Cornell Trial Design
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Akston Biosciences |
| Site | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine |
| Drug | AKS-562c (GLP-1 Fc-fusion, weekly injection) |
| Target species | Domestic cats (overweight or obese) |
| Cats enrolled | 70 (option to expand to 140) |
| Primary observation | ~3 months |
| Trial start | November 2025 |
| Expected readout | Mid-to-late 2026 |
How AKS-562c Compares to OKV-119
| Attribute | Akston AKS-562c | Okava OKV-119 |
|---|---|---|
| Active molecule | Novel GLP-1 Fc-fusion | Exenatide (existing GLP-1) |
| Delivery | Weekly subcutaneous injection | 6-month subcutaneous implant |
| Trial site | Cornell University Vet College | Multi-site veterinary network |
| Trial cats | 70 (expandable to 140) | ≥50 |
| Trial start | November 2025 | December 2025 |
| Expected readout | Mid-to-late 2026 | Summer 2026 |
| Repeat dosing | Weekly forever | Every 6 months |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Akston cat GLP-1 trial?+
How does AKS-562c differ from Okava's OKV-119?+
When will AKS-562c be available?+
Related
Veterinary disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before changing your pet's diet, exercise routine, or medication. Information is current as of the publication date but pet pharmaceutical and food formulation details may change.
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