BOSTON — Anodyne Nanotech has unveiled promising preclinical data showing that its novel muscle-preserving therapy, ANN-102, significantly improves muscle strength in aged animal models—matching the efficacy of daily injections through a simple, non-invasive patch. The breakthrough offers new hope in addressing sarcopenia, a progressive condition of muscle loss that affects millions of aging adults and drives substantial healthcare costs.
Delivered via Anodyne’s proprietary HeroPatch™ microneedle platform, ANN-102 is an APJ receptor agonist that targets biological pathways linked to aging, muscle regeneration, and metabolic health. In a 20-day study using an aged mouse model, ANN-102 delivered a meaningful increase in grip strength, a widely used indicator of functional muscle performance and a predictor of overall longevity.
“These preclinical results continue to demonstrate the HeroPatch’s ability to deliver complex therapies through the skin in a clinically meaningful way,” said Jake Lombardo, CEO and Co-Founder of Anodyne Nanotech. “We have developed an alternative route of administration for molecules that have strong therapeutic potential but have been held back by delivery challenges.”
Sarcopenia typically begins around age 30 and accelerates after 60, with individuals losing up to half their muscle mass by their 80s or 90s. The condition not only increases the risk of falls, fractures, and hospitalization, but also correlates with a 36% rise in all-cause mortality. In the U.S., hospitalizations tied to sarcopenia cost an estimated $19.1 billion annually.
ANN-102’s therapeutic target, the APJ receptor, is linked to muscle stem cell activation, vascular repair, improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced fat metabolism, and cardiovascular protection. The treatment’s broad impact on age-related decline positions it as a potential tool for extending healthspan, especially when paired with other aging-related therapies.
Anodyne’s long-term vision includes combining ANN-102 with GLP-1 receptor agonists—such as semaglutide (Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Zepbound®)—in a single transdermal patch. While GLP-1 drugs have shown strong results in weight loss, recent studies suggest up to 40% of that loss may come from muscle mass, a concern particularly for older adults. Anodyne’s patch-based delivery system may allow for a dual-action solution: managing obesity while preserving muscle.
The company plans to move ANN-102 into clinical development and is actively seeking strategic partnerships to accelerate progress.
Full results from the ANN-102 preclinical study are expected to be presented later this year.
